Pakistan, UK explore long-term investment partnership across key sectors

Officials from Pakistan and Britain explored ways to deepen trade links ahead of the upcoming bilateral Trade Dialogue, according to Mettis Global. Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott met at the commerce ministry, where the British side proposed a long-term investment partnership that is not legally binding. Topics ranged from healthcare and life sciences to information technology, farming, livestock, financial services, aviation and minerals work.

The proposed framework would cover regulatory reforms, trade facilitation, education, workforce skills and investment financing in sectors agreed by both countries. On livestock, the minister stressed raising animal productivity and adding value to meat exports, and he invited British technology and expertise. The High Commissioner, meanwhile, pressed for food safety standards so Pakistani producers can reach UK and other global markets.

Stronger international branding for Pakistani goods and the expansion of Pakistani food and restaurant brands in Britain were also on the agenda. In aviation, Airbus and Rolls-Royce featured in the briefing, with plane and engine options for PIA and leasing seen as a way to meet immediate fleet needs while longer-term purchase choices are weighed. Both sides agreed to keep developing practical proposals and preparing for the next Trade Dialogue, with the country's 80th anniversary in 2027 also in view.