UK National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell meets Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Wednesday. Photo: X/ PMO
UK National Security Advisor (NSA) Jonathan Powell on Wednesday conveyed the British government’s gratitude for Pakistan’s “constructive role in regional diplomacy” to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif amid efforts to bring about a solution to the US-Iran conflict.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, Powell visited the prime minister at the Prime Minister’s House.
“Powell conveyed Her Majesty’s Government’s appreciation for Pakistan’s constructive role in regional diplomacy, including its ongoing efforts to facilitate dialogue and de-escalation in the wider region,” the statement said.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining a “strong and forward-looking engagement” with the United Kingdom, which he described as a long-standing strategic partner.
Jonathan Powell, the UK’s national security adviser, called Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. Islamabad, May 20, 2026. pic.twitter.com/M5kK7pQwor
— Prime Minister’s Office (@PakPMO) May 20, 2026
Conveying his best wishes to his British counterpart Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister recalled the warm and cordial telephone conversation between the two leaders last month, during which they expressed a shared desire to further strengthen ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
The British NSA also congratulated the Prime Minister on the government’s economic reform efforts and expressed Britain’s interest in further expanding bilateral cooperation in the areas of security, trade, investment and development.
