Pakistan proposes signing FTA with UK

Pakistan on Thursday proposed signing a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom (UK), terming it a natural progression of the growing economic partnership between the two countries. The proposal was floated during a meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Director General (Political) of the United Kingdom Edward Llewellyn. British High Commissioner Jane Marriott also accompanied the delegation. The two sides discussed bilateral trade, regional security, and the evolving global energy situation. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade ties and reviewed progress under the Pakistan–UK Trade Dialogue. They appreciated the establishment of a working group on Healthcare and Life Sciences and agreed to activate additional working groups to enhance cooperation in IT, agriculture, professional services, and education and skills development.