UK Praises PM Shehbaz and CDF Munir for Historic Role in US-Iran Peace

Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their resolve to strengthen bilateral ties, with both nations agreeing to expand cooperation on security, law enforcement, and migration-related challenges during high-level talks on Wednesday.

The meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and British Deputy Foreign Secretary Hamish Falconer covered a wide range of issues central to Pakistan-UK relations, including counter terrorism, illegal migration, institutional cooperation, and police training programs.

UK Praises Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role

A key highlight of the discussion was Falconer’s acknowledgment of Pakistan’s diplomatic contribution in facilitating dialogue between the United States and Iran. He described Islamabad’s involvement as a meaningful step toward easing regional and global tensions.

Falconer specifically commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, crediting them with playing a “historic role” in promoting peace and stability. According to the British minister, Pakistan’s efforts in de-escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran have positioned the country as a credible advocate for global peace.

Progress on Institutional Capacity Building

Naqvi used the meeting to highlight gains made through the Upskill Project, an initiative aimed at strengthening the capabilities of Pakistani institutions. He noted that the program has delivered encouraging results and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving professional standards through continued international partnerships.

Expanding Cooperation on Security and Migration

Both sides agreed to broaden collaboration across several critical areas, including counter terrorism strategy, curbing illegal migration, institutional development, and law enforcement training. A notable point of agreement was the shared concern over fraudulent student visas, an issue that has increasingly troubled authorities in both countries.

Naqvi reiterated that Pakistan is taking firm, indiscriminate action against human trafficking networks and illegal migration syndicates, framing it as part of a broader effort to dismantle organized criminal groups exploiting vulnerable populations.

Regional Security and the Afghanistan Factor

Turning to regional security, Naqvi raised concerns over terrorist organizations operating from Afghan soil, calling on the Afghan government to prevent its territory from being used for activities targeting Pakistan. He emphasized that addressing cross-border militancy remains a priority for Islamabad’s security apparatus.

Reaffirming a Longstanding Partnership

Naqvi closed by reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its relationship with the UK, describing the partnership as longstanding and mutually beneficial across multiple sectors.

The meeting also included federal ministers Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Ali Pervaiz Malik, Talal Chaudhry, and Aoun Chaudhry, along with Interior Secretary Muhammad Khurram Agha, British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott, and senior officials from the Federal Investigation Agency and other national law enforcement bodies.