Moazzam Ahmad Khan calls upon British Pakistani Councillors to work together for further improving Pakistan-UK relations

LONDON, Nov 28 (SABAH): The Pakistan High Commission, London organized a Councillors and Mayors Convention at its premises.

Around 100 British Pakistani Councillors and Mayors from across Greater London attended the Convention and made their voices heard on important issues pertaining to the British Pakistani community, says a press release received here today from London. The purpose of the High Commission’s initiative was to connect with the Pakistani community through their elected leadership and provide them with a platform for sharing ideas for the welfare of British Pakistanis and promotion of Pakistan-UK bilateral relations.

In his remarks, High Commissioner Moazzam Ahmad Khan thanked the Councillors and Mayors for their participation in the Convention, which he said, was part of his efforts to connect with the wider community and forge better understanding on issues of common interest. The High Commissioner briefed the participants on the High Commission’s efforts to promote Pakistan-UK relations with particular focus on enhancing cooperation in trade, education and health sectors. He also apprised them of Mission’s continued efforts to raise awareness about the ongoing human rights abuses in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The High Commissioner gave an overview of improvements brought about in the Consular Services, especially the use of technology and online appointment system. He congratulated the community on the Government’s decision to grant the right to vote to overseas Pakistanis. The High Commissioner urged the participants to open Roshan Digital Accounts (RDA) to benefit from various investment opportunities offered by this initiative.

While appreciating the contribution of 1.6 million British Pakistanis in progress and development of the UK as well as Pakistan, the High Commissioner said much more could be achieved with enhanced focus on education for youth, active role of women in various walks of life and enhanced political and socio-economic participation of the community. During Q&A session, the Councillors and Mayors put forward useful suggestions for the betterment of the Pakistani community in the UK which were welcomed by the High Commissioner.

The participants also identified the inadequacies and problems faced by the Pakistani community where collective efforts were required. More such Conventions would be organised at four Consulates of Pakistan in Birmingham, Bradford, Manchester and Glasgow in coming months.