ISLAMABAD, Apr 18 (Alliance News): British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, has expressed the United Kingdom’s commitment to helping Pakistan achieve its economic potential of reaching the $2 trillion mark, emphasizing the importance of stronger strategic and economic ties between the two countries.
While addressing the Islamabad Business Summit, Marriott stated that the UK, as one of the world’s top providers of financial, trade, and business services, is well-positioned to support Pakistan’s economic ambitions.
“The UK is ready to share its expertise and resources to help Pakistan’s economy grow to the $2 trillion level,” she said.
Highlighting the strength of the bilateral relationship, the High Commissioner said the UK and Pakistan are “two sides of the same coin,” with current trade valued at £4.4 billion and a target of £10 billion in the near future.
Marriott described Pakistan as an emerging economy with a youthful population and lauded the ongoing reform agenda. She noted that with continued reforms and international support—such as that from the International Monetary Fund (IMF)—Pakistan could realize its economic goals.
She emphasized the UK’s role as a global leader in finance, business services, and trade, stating, “We are the third largest economy in the world, the second largest business services provider, and the largest financial services provider.”
The High Commissioner also reaffirmed the UK’s support in sectors like education, healthcare, engineering, energy, and climate resilience. She cited major collaborations including the Reko Diq project and initiatives aimed at clean and green energy in the power sector.
Additionally, she mentioned a $45 million UK programme focused on macroeconomic reforms in Pakistan and praised the efforts of the summit’s organizer, Azfar Ahsan, for convening global leaders and experts.
