Jane Marriott OBE, the British High Commissioner, announced a significant increase in the UK’s investment in Pakistan, focusing on tackling climate change and enhancing climate resilience. This announcement aligns with the UK’s support for a ‘Loss and Damage’ fund at COP 28, designed to aid climate-vulnerable countries like Pakistan.
The British High Commission hosted an event to celebrate King Charles’ 76th birthday, where attendees enjoyed a Band of the Artillery Company performance led by Major Bruce Miller and Band Sergeant Major Stuart Duncan. The Artillery Company, the oldest regiment in the British Army founded by King Henry VIII in 1537, has King Charles as its current Captain-General. In a nod to modernity, the band performed a contemporary cover of ‘Pasoori,’ showcasing King Charles’ acceptance of diverse musical styles.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
The event focused on environmental sustainability and climate change, causes that King Charles has championed for decades. High Commissioner Marriott emphasized the urgency of addressing climate vulnerabilities in Pakistan, noting the devastating impact of last year’s floods. The UK’s commitment to a greener future was further underscored by its collaboration with the Global System for Mobile Communications in expanding the AI-based ‘Early Warning Forest Fire Detection System’ in Pakistan.
Marriott highlighted other collaborative efforts, including expanding the Chevening scholarship programme and establishing the online ‘Pakistan Museum of Food’ with Google and the SOCH Foundation. Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani expressed gratitude for King Charles’ advocacy for environmental sustainability and praised the strong economic, political, and defense relationships between the UK and Pakistan. He acknowledged the British government’s generous assistance following the catastrophic floods in Pakistan, demonstrating the strength and solidarity of the bilateral partnership.
