PA speaker lauds UK’s continued support

The deputy high commissioner of the United Kingdom in Karachi, Lance Domm, paid a courtesy call on the speaker of the Sindh Assembly, Syed Awais Qadir Shah, at the provincial assembly on Tuesday.

Domm was accompanied by Ms. Huda Ikram, senior political adviser, and Noam Rosenbaum, economic advisor. The meeting reflected the strength of long-standing ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.

Speaker Shah welcomed the delegation and shared with the guests the historic legacy of the Sindh Assembly, highlighting that it was the first legislature to pass a resolution in favour of the creation of a separate Muslim state in the Indian subcontinent. He added that this had been the same assembly where the national flag of Pakistan was hoisted for the first time after independence.

The provincial assembly speaker was joined by MPA and Sindh government spokesperson Sadia Javed, MPA Jam Shabbir Ali, Sindh Assembly Secretary GM Umar Farooq, Director General Media Irfan Ahmed Memon, and Huma Ikramullah.

Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation between the UK and Sindh, particularly in the areas of trade, education, and public health. The PA speaker expressed appreciation for the UK’s continued support, especially during floods and humanitarian crises.

Both sides shared views on the growing challenge of misinformation and disinformation. They emphasised the need for public representatives to respond with responsibility and promote social harmony.

They also exchanged views on current internal and external affairs. Speaker Shah appreciated the announcement of a ceasefire between Pakistan and India and said Pakistan welcomed the decision, hoping it would be honoured by the other side as well. He reiterated that Pakistan has always advocated peace and believes in resolving matters through dialogue.

He also spoke about landmark legislation passed by the PPP's Sindh government, including the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act (2013), Sindh Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act (2013), Sindh Harassment at Workplace Act (2010), and Sindh Acid Control and Acid Crime Prevention Act (2011)—all aimed at protecting women and advancing social justice.

Shah emphasised Sindh’s inclusive social fabric rooted in Sufism, where religious minorities continue to live with dignity and mutual respect. He also spoke about the government’s commitment to protecting this harmony and diversity.

The British deputy high commissioner appreciated developments in Sindh’s transport sector. The PA speaker, along with MPAs Sadia Javed and Jam Shabbir Ali, highlighted his initiatives as former transport minister, including the launch of red and buses that have enhanced urban mobility.

Upon the deputy high commissioner’s request, Speaker Shah led the delegation to the historical old hall of the assembly, where the Pakistan Resolution was passed. The tour continued to the new assembly hall, reflecting the province’s evolving democratic journey.

To mark the occasion, Speaker Shah presented Lance Domm with the Legacy Shield of the provincial assembly, along with a traditional Sindhi Ajrak and a Sindhi cap as tokens of cultural goodwill. The deputy high commissioner thanked the speaker for the warm welcome, meaningful discussions, and gracious hospitality.