British High Commissioner Jane Marriott calls on NA Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, bilateral ties discussed

Celina Ali

Islamabad: British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott this week called on Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq here.

At the meeting, the Speaker said that enhancing parliamentary cooperation is key to further solidifying bilateral ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.

He said Pakistan deeply valued its long-standing relationship with the UK and noted that stronger inter-parliamentary engagement is essential for shared progress.

Sadiq said that a series of structural reforms aimed at modernizing Parliament, stating: “This is the first Parliament in the world that has been transformed into a Green Parliament through complete solarization.”

He added that more than 60,000 applications were received for the three-month Parliamentary Internship Programme, and over 200 interns were selected through a merit-based, gender-inclusive process that ensured representation from minority groups and major universities. “It is vital to engage young people in democratic processes through meaningful parliamentary exposure,” he remarked.

He said the whole staff of the National Assembly was interviewed by himself to ensure better resource management. He further shared that he had personally met with over 1,400 employees to understand their concerns and ensure their welfare was addressed. Parliamentary staff are also being trained in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). “While AI presents certain challenges, its potential benefits for governance are significant,” he noted.

The Speaker identified population growth and socio-economic disparities as pressing challenges requiring coordinated and forward-looking policy responses.He also briefed the High Commissioner on the successful conduct of the 18th Speakers’ Conference, which sought to harmonize legislative efforts between federal and provincial legislatures. Additionally, the formation of an Association of Public Accounts Committees (PACs) was highlighted as a milestone in promoting coordination between the National Assembly and Provincial Assemblies.

Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq reaffirmed that Pakistan always pursues a policy of peace and restraint as it becomes evident in recent Pakistan victory in war with India. He said that global peace is essential as it is a common man who suffers the most due to conflicts and war.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott praised the Speaker’s inclusive and consultative approach, especially his efforts to involve all political parties in the legislative process.

She lauded Pakistan’s sustainability initiatives and emphasized the value of sharing parliamentary experiences to strengthen lawmaking. She reaffirmed the UK’s continued support to Pakistan in the areas of education, climate resilience, and social development.