Philip Barton takes charge as new British envoy in Pakistan

Barton says he aims to further strengthen relations between Pakistan and UK.

ISLAMABAD: Philip Barton on Wednesday officially assumed his duties as the new British High Commissioner to Pakistan, saying he was committed to further strengthening relations between the two countries.

"I am delighted to become Her Majesty's High Commissioner to Pakistan," he said in a statement. "I am committed to strengthening these connections during my time here."

Barton noted that the UK is working closely with Pakistan through extensive cooperation on trade, investment, energy, education and security as well as meaningful people-to-people communications.

"Our rich people-to-people and cultural connections will help to underpin the deep and unique relationship between our two countries."

Extensive diplomatic experience

Barton served as the British Deputy Ambassador to Washington before coming to Pakistan as High Commissioner.

He has extensive experience with South Asia as well, having held a number of positions that dealt with Pakistan and Afghanistan. These include the offices of Director of Foreign Policy on Afghanistan-Pakistan and Additional Director for South Asia in the FCO.

He joined the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in 1986.He has also served as Private Secretary to Prime Ministers John Major and Tony Blair.

Barton has also served in Gibraltar as Deputy Governor, Nicosia as Deputy High Commissioner and Caracas.

On his appointment as ambassador to Pakistan, Barton said it is an honour and a privilege for him to be appointed to represent the United Kingdom in Pakistan.

Highlighting the importance of Pakistanis in Britain, he said the one million people of Pakistani origin in the UK are a bridge between the two countries.