ISLAMABAD: UK Minister for Faith Lord Wajid Khan reaffirmed his country’s commitment to minority groups rights during a three-day visit to Islamabad. He visited notable landmarks such as Faisal Mosque and St Joseph’s Cathedral, showcasing the diversity of Pakistan.

In a statement issued here by the British High Commission, he highlighted the UK’s work to establish over 1,000 community-led village forums, where communities came together to provide support to the most marginalized. These forums provided early interventions to resolve tensions before they escalate.

During his visit, Lord Khan met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister for Law and Human Rights Azam Tarar, Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Mohammad Yousaf and Government of Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs, Ramesh Singh Arora.

UK Minister for Faith, Communities and Resettlement, Lord Khan, said, “This visit has been a wonderful reminder of the diversity across Pakistan, and the white in the flag representing religious minorities. Our close partnership is helping to keep both of our countries safe, tackling shared threats including climate change, serious crime and irregular migration.”

The minister also spoke at the first overseas Pakistanis convention, an initiative by Pakistan to connect with overseas Pakistanis from nearly 60 countries.

He reflected on his own personal deep connection with Pakistan, with heritage from Gujrat, and spoke about the importance of the 1.6 million Pakistani diaspora in the UK. He also noted the rich trading partnership, with over 200 British businesses operating in Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, April 17th, 2025