Shehbaz Sharif urges stronger economic partnership with Britain
Sharif also said Pakistan had played a constructive role in facilitating talks between the United States and Iran.
Pakistan and Britain need a stronger economic partnership to match their deepening friendship, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said at a reception in Islamabad on Saturday.
The reception at the British High Commission marked the birthday of King Charles III, and Sharif offered his congratulations to the king and other members of the royal family.
Speaking at the event, Sharif said relations between the two countries had grown stronger and friendlier over time.
He said Pakistan and England compete hard on the cricket field, but their relations off it remain strong and friendly.
Sharif praised the king's public service, saying his life had been defined by a firm commitment to serving the public.
He said direct flights between Pakistan and Britain had resumed after six years, with PIA now operating services from Islamabad and Lahore to London Heathrow.
Trade between the two countries has reached about 5.5 million pounds, Sharif said, adding that there is wide room to expand commercial ties.
He said dialogue should always be preferred over confrontation when resolving global issues.
Sharif also said Pakistan had played a constructive role in facilitating talks between the United States and Iran.
Britain is one of Pakistan's key trading partners and is home to a large Pakistani community.
The restored direct flights and the focus on trade bear on travel and business links that matter to many Pakistanis.
