LONDON – Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing its bilateral relations with the United Kingdom (UK).
Speaking during a meeting with Speaker of the House of Commons, H.E. Lindsay Hoyle, Chairman Gilani underscored the historical and cultural ties between the two nations and the role of the Pakistani diaspora in fostering a dynamic partnership.
Accompanied by Senators Agha Shahzeb Durrani, Faisal Salim Rehman, Ashraf Ali Jatoi, and National Assembly Members Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani and Syed Qasim Ali Gilani, the Chairman Senate’s delegation is visiting the UK to explore avenues for bolstering bilateral, multilateral, and institutional cooperation.
In his opening remarks, Chairman Gilani highlighted the enduring bond between Pakistan and the UK, which has paved the way for deepening political, diplomatic, and economic ties, as well as enhancing people-to-people contacts. He praised the Pakistani diaspora for acting as a bridge and strengthening the relationship further.
Chairman Gilani emphasized the importance of broad-based parliamentary cooperation and the role of parliamentary diplomacy. He lauded the shared democratic values within the Commonwealth and Pakistan’s active participation on this platform. “As representatives and voices of our people, we have a singular responsibility in acting as bridges between our peoples and institutions of governance,” he remarked.
The meeting also addressed the Enhanced Strategic Dialogue (ESD) between Pakistan and the UK, established in 2011 during Gilani’s tenure as Prime Minister. Discussions included the possibility of upgrading the ESD to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership.
Chairman Gilani also brought attention to the issue of Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir, appreciating British MPs’ efforts in highlighting human rights abuses in the region. On the situation in Gaza, he reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to ending atrocities and urged the UK to raise its voice against human rights violations.
The meeting underscored the significance of frequent high-level visits and exchanges between governments, parliaments, and people to deepen inter-parliamentary relations.
Speaker Lindsay Hoyle commended Chairman Gilani’s remarks and called for a broad-based relationship between the UK and Pakistan, recognizing Pakistan’s historical significance to the UK.
Separately, Senators Faisal Salim Rehman, Agha Shahzeb Durrani, and Ashraf Ali Jatoi met with CPA Secretary General Stephen Twigg to discuss enhancing institutional cooperation between the Senate and the CPA. The meeting focused on collaborative efforts and debates on issues concerning CPA member states.
