Pakistan and the UK have explored aviation cooperation involving Airbus and Rolls-Royce for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), including aircraft acquisitions, engine supply arrangements, export credit assistance, and aircraft leasing options to address the carrier’s near-term fleet requirements.
The discussions took place during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and British High Commissioner Jane Marriott at Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce on Thursday.
Aircraft leasing was discussed as a short-term solution to meet PIA’s immediate fleet needs while the airline evaluates longer-term fleet acquisition plans. Jam Kamal Khan highlighted the commercial value of PIA’s direct international routes and emphasized the importance of improving service quality, operational reliability and fleet modernization to restore passenger confidence.
The meeting, which was attended by Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul and senior Ministry of Commerce officials, also explored opportunities to expand trade and investment cooperation across various sectors.
Both countries also explored ways to deepen trade ties and sectoral cooperation, with a focus on achieving tangible outcomes through the upcoming Pakistan–UK Trade Dialogue.
The British delegation also outlined a potential long-term, non-binding investment partnership backed at the ministerial level, aimed at providing a framework for cooperation in mutually agreed sectors. Proposed areas of collaboration include regulatory reform, trade facilitation, education and skills development, and investment financing.
Kamal Khan further emphasized opportunities for British technology, expertise, and investment to strengthen commercial partnerships.
Both sides acknowledged the scope for Pakistani companies to develop their own brands and capture a larger share of value from global exports. The British High Commissioner also recognized Pakistan’s ongoing economic reform agenda, including initiatives aimed at improving regulatory and tax frameworks.
With Pakistan set to mark its 80th anniversary in 2027, both countries discussed opportunities to use the occasion to showcase Pakistani products, investment prospects and areas of bilateral cooperation through business, educational and cultural initiatives.
The talks concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to continued coordination on practical initiatives and preparations for the next round of bilateral trade dialogue.
LEADERS SPOT | EU Trade Chief to Hold High-Level Discussions with Chinese Officials
