President Zardari calls for boosting Pak-UK trade, economic ties

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday stressed the need to further strengthen trade and economic ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom (UK) for the mutual benefit of the two friendly countries.

He said Pakistan and the UK enjoy cordial relations, rooted in history and shared legacy, which had been reinforced by high-level interactions and people-to-people contacts over the years.

The President expressed these views while talking to the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, who called on him at Aiwan-e-Sadr. Both sides exchanged views on matters of bilateral importance.

During the meeting, Zardari expressed his warm sentiments for King Charles III and the Princess of Wales, Catherine Middleton, and wished them good health. He also mentioned that the people of Pakistan held the King in high esteem.

Talking about the economic situation of the country, the President said stabilisation of economy was the priority with a key focus on employment generation and poverty alleviation.

Zardari highlighted that climate change posed a serious challenge to Pakistan as it was among the most vulnerable countries to this effect.

He told the high commissioner that Sindh had vast mangrove forests, covering an area of 600,000 hectares, which supported the coastal ecosystem, besides contributing to environmental sustainability. He added Pakistan had huge potential for solar and wind energy, and their proper utilisation could help the country meet its energy requirements.Jane Marriott felicitated Zardari on assuming the office of the President of Pakistan.