LAHORE - The British Minister of State for South Asia, Lord Tariq Ahmad called on Governor Punjab Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar and hailed Pakistan’s role for world peace, besides efforts to contain novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic in the country.

During a meeting at the Governor’s House here on Wednesday Pak-UK relations, Afghan Peace Process, war against terrorism, COVID-19 situation and matters of mutual interest, besides Kashmir and Palestine issues came under discussion. British High Commissioner Christian Turner was also present during the meeting.

Lord Tariq and Christian Turner commended the steps taken by Pakistan to curb the spread of coronavirus pandemic.

Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar, speaking on the occasion, said Pakistan Army and people sacrificed more than 70,000 lives during war against terrorism. He said Pakistan, under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, supported regional peace and stability and stood against terrorism. Urging the British government to play a more active role in resolving Kashmir and Palestine issues, Governor said the resolution of these issues was essential to regional peace, adding that Pakistan always played its positive role for regional peace and stability. 

Governor said Pakistan had been playing its due role for establishing durable peace in Afghanistan from the beginning of the conflict. Hailing British government’s support for health and education sectors, Punjab Governor Chaudhry Mohammad Sarwar said bilateral relations between Pakistan and the United Kingdom grew stronger during the Pakistan Tehreek e Insaaf (PTI) government, adding that the visit of Lord Tariq Ahmad to Pakistan would further strengthen the ties.

British Minister of State Lord Tariq Ahmad said that UK would play its role for prosperity of Pakistan and stressed the need to stand united against global challenges.

British High Commissioner said that the United Kingdom would extend cooperation in education, health and other sectors in Pakistan. He commended Pakistan government’s initiatives against coronavirus pandemic.

Punjab Governor Chaudhary Muhammad Sarwar presented a souvenir to the British Minister of State for South Asia Lord Tariq Ahmad on the occasion.