British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, has stated that Pakistan is currently facing trials and difficult economic targets.
In a message to media editors, Jane Marriott noted that today marks the completion of her first year of posting in Pakistan, describing it as a memorable year in her life.
She expressed her long-standing desire to live in Pakistan, a country she had always wished to reside in.
In the UK, they had heard about the country’s warm demeanor, natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food, and she found it lived up to expectations.
She mentioned her fortune of hiking at some of the world’s most beautiful locations and shared her regular visits to the lush Margalla Hills due to their proximity to her residence.
She also recalled some memorable holidays spent walking through the picturesque Nathia Gali.
Marriott commented that the year has not been particularly good for the cricket performances of both countries.
Nevertheless, watching the PSL at Rawalpindi Stadium and the Pakistan-UK T20 match at The Oval in London was a delightful experience.
She humorously added that despite attempting to play a few balls with the women’s cricket team and Marina Iqbal, she does not expect to have a spot on the cricket team in the near future.
In her message, she further noted the importance of family systems in Pakistani society.
She mentioned that her 82-year-old mother and elder sister visited Pakistan at the beginning of the year and fell in love with the country.
Many of her colleagues’ families who traveled to Pakistan have praised the warm welcome they received.
Praising Pakistani cuisine, she said that she feels a mention of Pakistan would be incomplete without noting its food.
She described the aroma of the world’s best mangoes greeting her as she entered her office, and shared her enjoyment of dishes ranging from Peshawar’s chapli kebabs and Multan’s halwa to Karachi’s biryani.
She acknowledged that, like any country, Pakistan has its challenges. This year is crucial for necessary economic reforms to ensure the country’s long-term success, and a comprehensive approach from all parties is essential.
Pakistan faces a difficult target in adapting to the effects of climate change on livelihoods and capabilities across the country.
In response to the large number of children not attending school, the Prime Minister of Pakistan has declared an ‘educational emergency.’
In conclusion, she affirmed that the UK is a close friend and partner to Pakistan and, after meeting many Pakistanis across the country, recognizes their capabilities, innovative nature, and potential to tackle these issues. She thanked Pakistan for a wonderful first year of experience.