UK lauds Pakistan’s regional diplomacy role as PM meets British NSA

• Jonathan Powell discuss security, trade and diplomacy with PM Shehbaz, lauding Islamabad’s efforts on de-escalation and dialogue in region

• Premier reaffirms commitment to ‘forward-looking’ Pakistan-UK partnership, recalling cordial phone call with UK PM

• Both sides eye expanded cooperation in trade, security and investment

 ISLAMABAD: The United Kingdom’s National Security Adviser (NSA) Jonathan Powell on Wednesday conveyed Britain’s appreciation for Pakistan’s “constructive role in regional diplomacy,” particularly its efforts aimed at de-escalation and dialogue in the broader regional context, during a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad.

According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Powell called on the prime minister at the Prime Minister’s House and lauded Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic engagement amid efforts to help facilitate a potential pathway towards easing tensions between the United States and Iran.

Mr. Jonathan Powell, the UK’s National Security Adviser, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. Islamabad, 20 May 2026. pic.twitter.com/M5kK7pQwor

— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) May 20, 2026

The British NSA conveyed that His Majesty’s Government valued Pakistan’s “constructive role in regional diplomacy,” including its continued efforts to promote dialogue, restraint and de-escalation in a volatile regional environment.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining a “robust and forward-looking engagement” with the United Kingdom, describing London as a longstanding and important strategic partner.

The prime minister conveyed his best wishes to UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and recalled his recent cordial telephone conversation with the British leader, during which both sides agreed to further strengthen bilateral relations across multiple domains.

Islamabad: 20 May 2026.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Meets UK National Security Adviser Mr. Jonathan Powell.

Mr. Jonathan Powell, the UK’s National Security Adviser, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister House today.

Deputy Prime… pic.twitter.com/0am5yMoDAK

— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) May 20, 2026

The meeting underscored the shared resolve of Pakistan and the United Kingdom to deepen cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including diplomacy, security, trade, investment and development partnership.

The British NSA also congratulated the prime minister on Pakistan’s ongoing economic reform agenda and expressed the UK’s keen interest in expanding bilateral cooperation in key sectors such as security, trade, investment and development support.

Both sides agreed to maintain close engagement and continue collaboration on regional and global issues of shared concern.

PM also meets MQM delegation over budget, Karachi development projects

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also held a separate meeting with a delegation of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) led by Federal Minister for Education and MQM Convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui to discuss the upcoming federal budget, public welfare initiatives in Sindh—particularly Karachi—and the broader political situation in the country.

The delegation included MQM leaders Farooq Sattar, Members of the National Assembly Syed Aminul Haque and Javed Hanif, according to a separate statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah also attended the meeting.

During the discussion, the MQM delegation presented its proposals regarding the upcoming federal budget, focusing on development priorities and public welfare needs.

The two sides also held detailed deliberations on ongoing and proposed development projects in Sindh, with a particular focus on Karachi’s infrastructure and urban development challenges.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described MQM as an important coalition partner, acknowledging its consistent support for government initiatives aimed at public welfare and economic stability.

He directed relevant authorities to thoroughly review MQM’s budget proposals and develop a comprehensive and practical strategy for incorporation where feasible.

The meeting also reviewed the prevailing political situation in the country and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued consultation with its allies.