Pakistan, UK agree to structured mechanism for regular foreign ministry talks

LONDON: Pakistan and the United Kingdom have agreed to establish a structured mechanism for formal talks between their foreign ministries as Islamabad and London seek to strengthen bilateral relations and ensure regular progress on areas of mutual cooperation.

The understanding was reached during delegation-level talks between Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband in London on Thursday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting, held during Dar’s official visit to the UK, covered the full spectrum of Pakistan-UK bilateral relations, with both sides discussing ways to deepen cooperation and maintain sustained high-level engagement.

According to the Foreign Office, the proposed mechanism will provide a formal framework for talks between the two foreign ministries, covering bilateral cooperation and enabling both countries to regularly review progress in key areas.

Dar and Miliband underscored the importance of continued high-level engagement and closer coordination on matters of mutual interest, signalling efforts to provide greater institutional structure to diplomatic ties between Islamabad and London.

Middle East situation discussed

Regional and international developments, particularly the evolving situation in the Middle East, also featured prominently during the talks.

Dar briefed Miliband on Pakistan’s diplomatic and mediation efforts in the region and shared progress made through Islamabad’s engagements aimed at promoting dialogue and reducing tensions.

The British foreign secretary appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role and facilitation efforts in promoting dialogue, diplomacy and stability in the Middle East, according to the Foreign Office.

The discussions came amid continuing regional instability and highlighted the importance both countries attach to diplomatic engagement and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Indus Waters Treaty

Developments concerning the Indus Waters Treaty were also discussed.

Dar highlighted Pakistan’s concerns over what Islamabad describes as India’s persistent violations of its international obligations and stressed the importance of upholding international law and respecting treaty commitments.

The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, governs the sharing of the waters of the Indus river system between Pakistan and India and remains a key issue in bilateral relations.

Security situation and Afghan-based threats

The regional security situation was another major issue raised during the meeting.

Dar expressed serious concern over terrorist threats emanating from Afghan soil and the activities of militant groups operating from Afghanistan, which Pakistan says pose a threat to its peace and security.

The two sides discussed the broader regional security environment and stressed the importance of continued engagement to promote peace and stability.

Pakistan has repeatedly raised concerns with Afghanistan’s Taliban government over militant activity and attacks that Islamabad says originate from Afghan territory. Pakistan has urged Kabul to prevent its territory from being used by terrorist groups against Pakistan.

The talks provided an opportunity for Islamabad to brief London on its security concerns and seek greater international understanding of the challenges facing the country.

Pakistani diaspora

Dar and Miliband also recognised the important role of the Pakistani diaspora in strengthening longstanding ties between Pakistan and the UK.

They acknowledged the contribution of the Pakistani community to people-to-people relations between the two countries, which have developed over decades through extensive social, cultural, educational and economic links.

The two sides concluded the discussions by underscoring the importance of sustained engagement in advancing peace, stability and cooperation in the region and beyond.

The proposed structured mechanism for regular foreign ministry talks is expected to provide a more systematic channel for reviewing bilateral relations and coordinating positions on regional and international issues.