ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott called on Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema on 21 October 2026 to discuss areas of mutual interest and cooperation between Pakistan and the United Kingdom regarding economic reforms and development priorities.

Key Points

• British High Commissioner Jane Marriott met Federal Minister Ahad Cheema in Islamabad.
• Marriott congratulated Cheema on his appointment as Chair of WB and IMF Boards of Governors for 2027.
• Cheema highlighted government priorities in agriculture and information technology sectors.
• The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office will continue supporting Pakistan’s reform efforts.

Economic Reforms and Government Priorities

The High Commissioner congratulated the Minister on his appointment as Chair of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund for 2027. Ahad Cheema thanked her for the congratulatory remarks. During the meeting, the Minister highlighted the Prime Minister’s priorities for strengthening agriculture, information technology and other key sectors. He said the Government is pursuing sector-oriented reforms and policies to support economic growth.

Multilateral Investments and FCDO Support

Ahad Cheema said the Government is providing full support to development partners and multilateral investments, while working to further facilitate cooperation and investment. The Minister appreciated the support of the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) for capacity building and reforms in Pakistan. He noted that the FCDO is working closely with the Prime Minister’s Office on the Government’s ongoing reform efforts and appreciated its engagement in this process.

Future Engagement Between Pakistan and the United Kingdom

Jane Marriott said the FCDO will continue supporting the Government of Pakistan. She appreciated the Government’s efforts to improve the economy and acknowledged the ongoing reforms across different sectors. Both sides expressed their resolve to maintain close engagement and strengthen cooperation in areas of mutual interest. They discussed continued collaboration on Pakistan’s development priorities, including capacity building and reforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who did British High Commissioner Jane Marriott meet in Islamabad?

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott met Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema on 21 October.

What new role was Ahad Cheema congratulated for?

Jane Marriott congratulated Ahad Cheema on his appointment as Chair of the Boards of Governors of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund for 2027.