New British Envoy to the Commonwealth calls on the High Commissioner

Mr Tim Cole, the new British Envoy to the Commonwealth called on H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK at his office on 2 December 2016.

The High Commissioner felicitated Mr Tim Cole on assuming the new office and assured him of all possible support. He stated that being a founding member, Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the Commonwealth. The High Commissioner reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening the
organization and promoting its objectives and core values.

The two sides agreed that there was a need to make the Commonwealth more effective through much needed reforms. The future role of the Commonwealth,particularly in the wake of Brexit, came under discussion. Deliberations were made on how the Commonwealth trade advantage could be used to enhance trade
among the member countries.

The two sides also discussed the UK-Pakistan bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries at other multilateral fora. They shared the views that based on common language, common law as well as shared history and culture, the Commonwealth provided a valuable forum for the member countries for socio-economic and trade & development cooperation.

The Envoy shared that the UK government was planning to hold the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), in the UK in 2018. Upon this, the High Commissioner said Pakistan looks forward to participating in the meeting. Mr Cole appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role within the organization.

The two sides agreed to continue working closely to promote the objectives of Commonwealth.

Mr Tim Cole thanked the High Commissioner for welcoming him to the High Commission and his offer of support.