Senior Provincial Minister of Punjab Maryam Aurangzeb held an important meeting with the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for International Development, Baroness Jennifer Chapman, and the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott. The meeting included detailed discussions on bilateral trade, investment, development cooperation, and joint environmental goals under the UK-Pakistan Green Compact. Both sides agreed to further enhance cooperation to tackle climate change challenges, promote green technology, and strengthen environmental sustainability. Opportunities to expand economic and environmental partnerships at the provincial level were also reviewed.
During the meeting, Maryam Aurangzeb extended a special invitation to the British Minister to visit Lahore and participate in the historic festival of Basant. Baroness Chapman appreciated Lahore’s cultural heritage, historical landmarks, economic potential, and urban diversity, noting that Lahore is a prominent cultural and economic hub of the region. The delegation was briefed on Punjab Government’s reforms in health, education, good governance, digital transparency, and other priority sectors. Pakistan’s recent floods and Punjab’s timely “anticipatory response” strategy were also discussed.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb stated that Punjab has shifted from merely reacting to natural disasters to adopting a model based on early planning and preparedness. She added that under the current government’s clear direction and focus, the administrative system is functioning more effectively and efficiently than before. The British delegation was also briefed on Punjab’s new smog-control strategy, which includes mandatory vehicular emissions testing, technological upgradation of brick kilns, AQI monitoring systems, and multidisciplinary environmental projects. The delegation termed the recent improvement in Lahore’s air quality a positive development. Discussions were also held on the Magnificent Punjab app and cultural heritage restoration projects. Baroness Chapman appreciated Punjab’s efforts toward cultural preservation, urban renewal, and environment-friendly initiatives.