Pakistan, UK review trade dialogue and energy security concerns

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United Kingdom held a high-level meeting in Islamabad to discuss bilateral trade, regional security and the global energy situation.

The meeting took place between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and The Rt Hon Edward Llewellyn, Director General Political of the United Kingdom. British High Commissioner Ms Jane Marriott also attended the meeting alongside the UK official.

During the talks, the two sides reviewed progress under the Pakistan-UK Trade Dialogue. They also welcomed the establishment of a working group on Healthcare and Life Sciences.

Both countries agreed on the need to operationalise additional working groups to deepen cooperation in several sectors. These included information technology, agriculture, professional services, and education and skills.

Trade reforms and investment climate

Speaking during the meeting, Jam Kamal Khan said Pakistan remained committed to structural reforms aimed at improving the trade environment and drawing foreign investment. He said the government’s tariff policy and regulatory changes were intended to make the country more competitive and more conducive for business activity.

The commerce minister said that

consistency in policy and gradual reforms are key to building long-term investor confidence.

On the UK side, officials asked Pakistan to consider their proposals regarding planned changes to the country’s intellectual property framework. They also stressed the importance of policy certainty.

In his remarks, Ed Llewellyn said investor confidence was shaped not only by policy measures but also by the government’s messaging. He said that timely consultation and transparency could help reassure international businesses and support further investment.

Basmati registration and maritime concerns

The two sides also discussed the geographical indication and trademark registration of Pakistani Basmati rice. They agreed to remain engaged on the issue.

Another key area of discussion was the strategic significance of the Strait of Hormuz. Both sides expressed concern over increasing shipping costs and the risks posed to global trade amid the ongoing energy situation.

Pakistan raised the issue of higher maritime charges affecting its exports and called for a fair assessment of risk zones.

The meeting covered trade and security matters at a time when both countries are continuing engagement through the Pakistan-UK Trade Dialogue and related sectoral working groups.