Nazir Siyal
KARACHI: Deputy High Commissioner of the United Kingdom in Karachi, Mr. Lance Domm, paid a courtesy call on the Speaker of Provincial Assembly of Sindh, Syed Awais Qadir Shah, here on Tuesday.
On the occasion, Mr. Domm was accompanied by Ms. Huda Ikram, Senior Political Adviser, and Mr. Noam Rosenbaum, Economic Advisor in Karachi Sindh.
The meeting reflected the strength of long-standing ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom.
The Speaker welcomed the delegation and shared the historic legacy of the Sindh Assembly, highlighting that it was the first legislature to pass a resolution in favor of the creation of a separate Muslim state. He added that this same Assembly was where the national flag of Pakistan was hoisted for the first time after independence.
The Speaker was joined by MPA and Spokesperson of the Sindh Government Ms. Sadia Javed, MPA Mr. Jam Shabbir Ali, Secretary G.M. Umar Farooq, Director General Media Mr. Irfan Ahmed Memon, and Ms. Huma Ikramullah.
Discussions focused on enhancing cooperation between the UK and Sindh province, particularly in the areas of trade, education, and public health. The Speaker expressed appreciation for the UK’s continued support, especially during floods and humanitarian crises.
Both sides shared views on the growing challenge of misinformation and disinformation. They emphasized the need for public representatives to respond with responsibility and promote social harmony.
They also exchanged views on current internal and external affairs. The Speaker appreciated the announcement of a ceasefire and said Pakistan welcomes the decision, hoping it will be honored from the other side as well. He reiterated that Pakistan has always advocated for peace and believes in resolving matters through dialogue.
He also spoke about landmark legislation led by the PPP government, including the Sindh Child Marriage Restraint Act (2013), Sindh Domestic Violence (Prevention and Protection) Act (2013), Sindh Harassment at Workplace Act (2010), and Sindh Acid Control and Acid Crime Prevention Act (2011)—all aimed at protecting women and advancing social justice.
The Speaker emphasized Sindh’s inclusive social fabric rooted in Sufism, where religious minorities continue to live with dignity and mutual respect. He told about the government’s commitment to protecting this harmony and diversity.
Mr. Domm appreciated developments in Sindh’s transport sector. The Speaker, along with MPAs Sadia Javed and Jam Shabbir Ali, highlighted Syed Awais Qadir Shah’s initiatives as former Transport Minister, including the launch of Red Buses and Electric Buses that have enhanced urban mobility.
Upon the Deputy High Commissioner’s request, the Speaker led the delegation to the historic Old Hall of the Assembly, where the Pakistan Resolution was passed. The tour continued to the new Assembly Hall, reflecting the province’s evolving democratic journey.
To mark the occasion, Speaker Awais Qadir Shah presented Mr. Lance Domm with the Legacy Shield of the Provincial Assembly of Sindh, along with a traditional Sindhi Ajrak and Sindhi Cap as tokens of cultural goodwill.
The Deputy High Commissioner thanked the Speaker for the warm welcome, meaningful discussions, and gracious hospitality.
