Pakistan-UK defence cooperation have reaffirmed the commitment to deepen bilateral relations, with a renewed focus on defence collaboration and trade enhancement. The development follows a high-level meeting in Rawalpindi between Federal Minister for Defence Production Muhammad Raza Hayat Harraj and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott.
During the meeting, Minister Harraj described the UK as a “close friend” and “genuine development partner,” highlighting the benefits of consistent diplomatic engagement in addressing regional and international issues. Both sides agreed to bolster cooperation in defence production and other strategic sectors.
The Details of Pakistan-UK Defence Cooperation
High Commissioner Marriott emphasized the UK’s dedication to supporting shared priorities with Pakistan, particularly in defence and economic development. The meeting comes just weeks after both countries launched a series of trade initiatives under the UK-Pakistan Trade Dialogue.
As part of that initiative, the two sides established a UK-Pakistan Business Advisory Council, bringing together top business leaders and government officials to remove barriers to investment and trade. The council will serve as a platform for policy advice, private engagement, and sharing best practices.
Additionally, the UK announced £200,000 in funding to assist Pakistan in attracting UK-based investment. These funds will support technical outreach, investor matchmaking, and other forms of assistance aimed at improving the business climate.
What’s Next
Bilateral trade between the UK and Pakistan currently stands at £4.7 billion, and both governments have expressed their desire to raise that figure further through targeted policy reform and increased collaboration.
The new defence-focused discussions represent not only strategic alignment but also an evolution in UK-Pakistan ties — broadening the partnership beyond trade into national security and industrial development.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 5th, 2025
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