ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif joined British High Commissioner Jane Marriott on Friday to welcome guests at a celebration for King Charles III’s 77th birthday.

According to a statement from the British High Commission, the celebration followed a significant year for the UK-Pakistan relationship.

The statement highlighted improved connectivity with the lifting of an air safety ban on Pakistani airlines, which led to Pakistan International Airlines’ first flight to Manchester in five years. The UK also introduced eVisas for students and workers this year to ease travel and strengthen ties.

Over the past year, bilateral trade reached £5.5 billion, crossing the £5bn mark for the first time, the statement said. The UK also continued its support for Pakistan’s flood recovery efforts and launched a UK–Pakistan Trade Dialogue to open new opportunities.

“Just as Pakistan is made up of rich and diverse cultures, the UK has incredible diversity thro­ugh its four nations,” Ms Marriott said. “And all four of our nations — England, Scotland, North­ern Ireland and Wales — have a vital part to play in our partnership with Pakistan.”

The event celebrated the cultural ties between the two countries. Guests arrived to the music of bagpipers from the Pakistani military, and singer Maria Unera performed a medley of classic British hits.

Published in Dawn, November 15th, 2025