Says this visit highlights strength, depth of the UK–Pakistan relationship at time of global instability
UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office’s Director General Political Ed Llewellyn on Wednesday commended Pakistan’s efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and reaffirmed commitment to promoting peace in the region during his visit to Islamabad.
Pakistan has emerged as a key mediator and ramped up its efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East after US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran, which prompted Tehran to launch attacks on Israel and US military bases in the Gulf.
To ease tensions, Pakistan hosted a quadrilateral foreign ministers’ meeting on Sunday in Islamabad, with representatives from Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. The meeting grabbed the world’s attention and was widely appreciated for Pakistan’s efforts.
A press release issued today from the UK High Commission said Llewellyn welcomed Pakistani efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and reiterated the UK’s call for a cessation in attacks against civilian infrastructure.
“This visit highlights the strength and depth of the UK-Pakistan relationship at a time of global instability. Our partnership is rooted in shared interests and continued dialogue is essential as we work together to support regional stability and tackle joint security challenges,” he said.
He also recognised the impact of terrorism on Pakistan’s people, and the sacrifices made by its law enforcement and security forces in seeking to combat it.
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Llewellyn reaffirmed that the UK stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and emphasised its commitment to deepening cooperation to this end.
He also underlined the UK’s support for Pakistan’s long-term economic growth and highlighted the importance of continued partnership on climate resilience, development and people-to-people links.
