British HC calls on President Zardari

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized further strengthening trade and economic ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom for mutual benefit.

“Pakistan and the United Kingdom (UK) enjoy cordial relations, rooted in history and shared legacy, which have been reinforced by high-level interactions and people-to-people contacts over the years,” the president expressed these views while talking to the British High Commissioner to Pakistan Ms Jane Marriott, who called on him, at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Thursday and both sides exchanged views on matters of bilateral importance.

During the meeting, President Zardari expressed his warm sentiments for His Majesty King Charles III and the Princess of Wales, Catherine Middleton, and wished them good health. He also mentioned that the people of Pakistan held His Majesty the King in high esteem.

Talking about the economic situation of the country, the president stated that the stabilization of the economy was the priority with a key focus on employment generation and poverty alleviation.

The president highlighted that climate change posed a serious challenge to Pakistan as it was among the most vulnerable countries to climate change.

He informed the High Commissioner that Sindh had mangrove forests, covering an area of 600,000 hectares, which supported the coastal ecosystem, besides contributing to environmental sustainability. He said that Pakistan had huge potential for solar and wind energy, and their proper utilization could help the country meet its energy requirements.

British High Commissioner to Pakistan Ms Jane Marriott felicitated President Zardari on assuming the office of the President of Pakistan.