Philippines (GNP): Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting regional peace during a high-level meeting held on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) 2026 in Manila.
Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met with the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Rt. Hon. Ed Miliband, where both leaders discussed ways to deepen cooperation across political, economic, and diplomatic sectors while addressing pressing regional and international security issues.
At the beginning of the meeting, Senator Ishaq Dar congratulated Foreign Secretary Miliband on his recent appointment and wished him success in his new role.
The two leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, describing the relationship as one built on mutual respect, common interests, and decades of cooperation.
Foreign Secretary Miliband acknowledged the valuable contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in the United Kingdom, recognizing its important role in strengthening people to people connections, supporting economic growth, and promoting closer cultural ties between the two countries.
The Pakistani community remains one of the largest and most influential diaspora groups in the UK, contributing significantly across business, healthcare, education, and public service.
Also Read: PM inaugurates Indus Robotics & Autonomous Systems Expo
Regional developments featured prominently in the discussions. Both leaders exchanged views on the evolving security environment in South Asia and the Middle East, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and constructive engagement to prevent further instability.
Foreign Secretary Miliband appreciated Pakistan’s continued efforts to encourage dialogue and de escalation during the recent tensions between the United States and Iran.
He recognized Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement aimed at reducing regional tensions and supporting peaceful solutions through negotiation rather than military confrontation.
Both sides expressed concern over recent regional escalations and stressed that lasting peace can only be achieved through sustained diplomatic efforts, open communication, and respect for international law.
They agreed that cooperation among regional and international partners remains essential for addressing shared security challenges and maintaining long term stability.
The meeting also reflected the growing importance of Pakistan-UK cooperation on global issues, including regional security, economic development, climate change, trade, education, and international diplomacy.
Officials noted that both countries continue to work together through bilateral engagements and multilateral forums to advance common interests.Analysts believe the discussions at the ASEAN Regional Forum demonstrate the importance both governments attach to maintaining close diplomatic coordination during a period of increasing geopolitical uncertainty.
As conflicts and security challenges continue to affect several regions, Pakistan and the United Kingdom have reiterated their support for peaceful conflict resolution and stronger international cooperation.
The meeting concluded with both leaders expressing confidence that continued high-level dialogue and practical cooperation would further strengthen Pakistan-UK relations while contributing to regional peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Their discussions reaffirmed a shared commitment to diplomacy, constructive engagement, and deeper bilateral collaboration in addressing both regional and global challenges.
