Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab in Pakistan: “Pakistan is a vital UK partner on Afghanistan”
Published By GOV.UK [English], Fri, Sep 3, 2021 9:03 AM
UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab today visited Pakistan to discuss how the 2 countries can work closely together on the situation in Afghanistan.
He held meetings with Prime Minister Imran Khan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and was scheduled to meet Chief of Army Staff General Bajwa later.
Discussions focused on securing a safe passage for those leaving Afghanistan, combatting terrorism, the humanitarian situation and regional stability, among other issues.
The Foreign Secretary visited the Afghanistan-Pakistan border at Torkham, an important crossing point, to see for himself the situation on the ground. He also met members of the team supporting the current crisis response.
Speaking at a joint press briefing with the Pakistan Foreign Minister, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said:
The basis for the UK-Pakistan relationship is very strong - and the UK has the desire to take it to the next level. We also have a very clear and shared interest in the future of Afghanistan. We will judge the Taliban by their actions, not their words.
The Foreign Secretary underlined the UK’s commitment to help those fleeing Afghanistan, including by supporting neighbouring countries.
The UK has announced a doubling of aid to Afghanistan to £286 million and has released the first tranche of £30 million of that to support Afghanistan’s regional neighbours, including Pakistan.
Dr Christian Turner CMG, the UK High Commissioner to Pakistan, said:
The Foreign Secretary’s visit to Pakistan today underlines just how vital the UK-Pakistan relationship is. We are committed to working closely together to help the people of Afghanistan and promote stability in the region.
Background:
the Foreign Secretary visited Qatar before coming to Pakistan to discuss Afghanistan, and how regional partners can play a role in resolving the situation
the UK announced the first tranche of £30 million of life-saving aid to Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries to help those who choose to leave Afghanistan during the crisis
pictures of the Foreign Secretary’s visit to Pakistan are on No.10’s Flickr
For updates on the British High Commission, follow our social media channels:
Twitter: @UKinPakistan, @CTurnerFCDO
Website
Contact
British High Commission
Islamabad
tel. 0300 500 5306
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