ISLAMABAD: The United Kingdom’s Minister for Faith, Communities and Resettlement, Lord Wajid Khan, has praised Pakistan’s commitment to interfaith harmony and religious diversity, reaffirming the UK’s support for minority rights and bilateral cooperation.
During his three-day visit to Islamabad, Lord Khan visited key religious sites, including the Faisal Mosque and St. Joseph’s Cathedral. He lauded Pakistan’s religious diversity and the representation of minorities in the national flag.
In his interactions with senior Pakistani officials, Lord Khan underscored the UK’s continued partnership with Pakistan in promoting social cohesion and addressing shared global challenges.
Pakistan is home to many different faith groups. It was wonderful to see this diversity first-hand. Promoting religious harmony is key to building more peaceful and safe societies. I’m proud that the UK remains a firm champion of religious tolerance. pic.twitter.com/y08C9FI5Tu
— Lord Wajid Khan (@LordWajidKhan) April 16, 2025
He met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Law and Human Rights Minister Azam Tarar, Religious Affairs Minister Sardar Muhammad Yousaf, and Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora.
“These meetings reflected the depth of our bilateral relationship and our shared values,” Lord Khan said, adding that the UK remains committed to supporting Pakistan in promoting inclusion, tolerance, and human rights.
Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 received the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government of the United Kingdom, Lord Wajid Khan @LordWajidKhan. They discussed issues of mutual… pic.twitter.com/zZL2WZwEwO
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs – Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) April 16, 2025
He shared insights on the UK’s initiative to establish over 1,000 community-led village forums. These platforms aim to support marginalised communities and serve as early intervention mechanisms to address tensions, contributing to long-term peace and stability.
“This visit has been a wonderful reminder of the diversity across Pakistan, and the white in the flag representing religious minorities,” Lord Khan said.
He appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in preserving religious harmony and called for continued collaboration on social and development goals.
During his visit, Lord Khan also addressed the first Overseas Pakistanis Convention, an initiative by the Pakistani government to engage with members of the diaspora from nearly 60 countries.
He acknowledged the contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in the UK, which numbers around 1.6 million people.
He further noted his personal connection to Pakistan, stating that his family originates from Gujrat.
Lord Khan highlighted the strength of UK-Pakistan economic relations, pointing out that more than 200 British businesses are currently operating in Pakistan.
Lord Khan said both countries must work together to tackle common challenges, including climate change, serious organised crime, and irregular migration.
