From Margalla Hills to mangoes: a year in Pakistan

Today marks the 1-year anniversary of my arrival in Pakistan. And what a year it’s been! It’s a country that I’d always wanted to live in, with a wonderful reputation in the UK thanks to its warm hospitality, natural beauty, rich cultural heritage and culinary delights. It has not disappointed.

I feel lucky to be able to hike in some of the most beautiful parts of the world, regularly taking advantage of the Margalla Hills on my doorstep, and some special weekends to Nathia Gali. While it wasn’t the year for either of our cricket teams, it didn’t take away from the electric atmosphere when I visited Rawalpindi Stadium for the PSL and the Oval in London to see the Pakistan-UK T20. Although if you saw me attempting to bat some balls with the Women’s team and Marina Iqbal, safe to say I won’t be getting called up any time soon!

Family is at the heart of society here. Earlier this year my 82-year old Mum and big sister visited, also falling in love with the country. And many of my colleagues who have had family visit have spoken of the warm welcome they’ve had as they’ve travelled around.

I could not talk about Pakistan without talking about the food! There’s something quite special about walking into the office, and the smell of the world’s best mangoes filling the room. From Peshawar's Kaba, to Multan's Halva and Karachi's Biryani, I have eaten well (and eaten a lot!)

Pakistan, like any country, is not without its challenges. This year is a critical year for making the economic reforms necessary to ensure Pakistan’s long-term success: an inclusive approach with buy in from all the key players is essential. Pakistan faces a daunting task in adapting lives and livelihoods across the country to the impacts of climate change. And the Prime Minister has declared an ‘Education Emergency’, aiming to get Pakistan’s large cohort of out-of-school children back on track with their education.

But having met Pakistanis from across the country, I know your strength, innovative nature and resilience puts you in an excellent position to tackle these issues head on, with the UK as a close friend and partner.

Bohat shukriya for a magnificent first year!

Jane Marriott CMG OBE is British high commissioner to Pakistan