Bilawal, British HC agree to enhance trade, cultural ties

KARACHI: Pakistan Peoples Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott at Bilawal House on Thursday. They discussed ways to promote bilateral ties between Pakistan and the UK.

They discussed matters of mutual interest, and agreed to enhance trade and cultural ties between the two friendly countries. The PPP chairman also met former National Assembly member Ghous Bux Khan Mahar at Bilawal House, and discussed the political situation of Sindh.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah also met the British high commissioner at the CM House. CM’s Principal Secretary Agha Wasif also attended the meeting that discussed climate change, post-flood rehabilitation, education and other critical issues.

Discussing the challenges faced by the province, the high commissioner said: “Rehabilitation after the devastating floods is one of the biggest challenges for the Sindh government.”

Shah reflected on the aftermath of the 2022 floods, which caused widespread damage to agriculture, roads and the irrigation system. “Over 2.1 million people were and stabilise the economy,” he pointed out. On education, he said efforts to rebuild damaged schools are progressing rapidly, and acknowledged the invaluable assistance from donor agencies.

Discussions also touched on industrial development, particularly the completion of special economic zones. The high commissioner emphasised the need for industrialisation in Karachi. Shah shared updates on the government’s commitment to economic growth through public-private partnerships, engaging both local and international investors.

He disclosed Karachi faces a 50 per cent shortage relative to its population needs. He said thegovernment is working on the K-IV water supply project and the construction of a new Hub canal.It also underscored making efforts to address critical challenges, strengthen the education sector, and drive industrial and economic growth.

He shared that the Sindh government has initiated climate-resilient projects to ensure sustainable recovery. He thanked the British government for their support in irrigation and other sectors.