Ishaq Dar Advocates Swift Return Of PIA Flights To UK

Pakistan’s newly-appointed Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar engaged in a phone conversation with his British counterpart David Cameron on Monday. During this exchange, Dar underscored the urgency of restarting Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights to the United Kingdom to strengthen ties between the two nations, as relayed by the Foreign Office (FO).

The United Kingdom was one of several countries that imposed a ban on PIA flights following the revelation of the fake pilot licenses scandal in Pakistan’s aviation sector in 2020.

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Dar had previously addressed this issue during discussions with British government officials in London over the weekend, expressing optimism that PIA flights to the UK would resume “in weeks, not months.”

In the phone call with Cameron, Dar reiterated his request for the resumption of flights, emphasizing the potential to enhance bilateral connectivity.

Dar conveyed his appreciation to Cameron for extending his congratulations on assuming office, expressing his eagerness to collaborate closely with the UK leadership to further strengthen bilateral ties. He also emphasized the importance of bolstering cooperation in trade, investment, people-to-people exchanges, and climate-related matters.

Additionally, Dar and Cameron delved into significant regional matters such as Afghanistan and the situation in Gaza. Dar extended an invitation to Cameron to visit Pakistan at a mutually convenient time.

Highlighting the longstanding and multifaceted nature of Pakistan-UK relations, Dar emphasized the need to expedite the conclusion of the Enhanced Strategic Partnership agreement to elevate the relationship to new heights.