Pakistan and the United Kingdom are exploring a long-term investment partnership to strengthen bilateral trade and cooperation across key economic sectors. The discussions took place during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott at the Ministry of Commerce.
The meeting focused on expanding trade and investment opportunities in healthcare and life sciences, information technology, agriculture and livestock, financial services, aviation, and minerals-related services. Both sides also discussed preparations for the next bilateral Trade Dialogue, aiming to achieve practical outcomes and deepen economic ties.
The British side proposed a long-term, non-legally binding investment partnership, supported at the ministerial level, to provide a framework for cooperation in mutually agreed sectors. Potential areas of collaboration included regulatory reforms, trade facilitation, education, workforce development and investment financing.
Livestock emerged as a key area of potential cooperation, with Jam Kamal Khan highlighting opportunities to improve animal productivity, increase value addition and expand meat exports. He noted that British expertise, advanced technology and investment could help modernise Pakistan’s livestock industry and strengthen commercial connections between the two countries.
Jane Marriott stressed the importance of food safety standards and regulatory compliance to help Pakistani producers gain greater access to the UK and other international markets. The meeting also reviewed ongoing cooperation through the healthcare and life sciences working group.
Both sides explored ways to strengthen the international branding of Pakistani products, including pink salt, olive oil, food products, textiles and surgical instruments. Discussions highlighted the importance of quality assurance, value addition and effective marketing to help local businesses establish their own brands and capture greater value in international markets. Opportunities for Pakistani food companies and restaurant brands to expand into the United Kingdom were also considered.
Aviation cooperation was another important topic. Discussions covered engagement involving Airbus and Rolls-Royce, potential aircraft and engine arrangements for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), and possible export credit support. Aircraft leasing was also considered as a way to address immediate fleet requirements while longer-term procurement options are evaluated.
The discussions reflect Pakistan and the UK's shared interest in strengthening bilateral economic relations, attracting investment and creating new opportunities for businesses across priority sectors. The proposed investment partnership could provide a foundation for sustained cooperation and improved market access for businesses in both countries.
