KARACHI PAKISTAN : The Deputy Head of Mission at the British Deputy High Commission, Thomas Peter Harry Burge, has expressed satisfaction over the prevailing law and order situation in Karachi, describing the city as Pakistan’s financial nerve centre and a vibrant metropolis that “never sleeps.”
He was speaking during an interaction with senior journalists at a dinner hosted in collaboration with the management of Hotel Mehran at its Killey Restaurant.
Mr Burge said that before arriving in Pakistan he had some reservations owing to negative reports circulating internationally about security conditions in the country, particularly Karachi. “However, after my arrival, I found the situation quite different from what I had heard. I feel safe and comfortable here. The people of Karachi are warm, friendly and extremely hospitable,” he said, adding that the city’s energy and diversity make it unique.
Referring to Karachi as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, he noted that the city plays a central role in trade, finance and industry. He observed that the improvement in the security environment had positively impacted business confidence and social activities.
Speaking about bilateral ties, Mr Burge said relations between the United Kingdom and Pakistan were steadily strengthening. He noted that cooperation in areas such as education, trade, climate, and people-to-people contacts continued to grow, reflecting a shared commitment to long-term partnership.
The event was attended by prominent members of the diplomatic community, including Emmanuel BREUREC, Director of Alliance Française; Bambang Purwanto, newly arrived Consul (Social and Cultural Affairs) representing the Consul General of Indonesia; and Mudzakir, M.A. of the Republic of Indonesia in Karachi.
Upon arrival, the distinguished guests were warmly received by Mohammed Yousuf, Director Sales and Marketing of Hotel Mehran, who presented bouquets as a gesture of welcome.
Sharing lighter moments during the interaction, Mr Burge said he had developed a particular fondness for Pakistani cuisine. He mentioned chicken biryani, barbecue, lassi, doodh pati chai and traditional desserts among his favourites. He remarked that the culinary diversity of Karachi reflected the city’s multicultural character.
Describing himself as an avid cricket fan, the UK diplomat said he closely follows the sport and would certainly attend matches in Karachi if fixtures of the Pakistan Super League are scheduled in the city. “Cricket is a shared passion between our two countries and serves as a strong cultural bridge,” he added.
He also appreciated the central location, ambiance and quality of cuisine at Hotel Mehran, commending the management for hosting an engaging and well-organised gathering that fostered meaningful dialogue between diplomats and media representatives.
The evening concluded on a celebratory note with a pre-birthday cake-cutting ceremony in honour of senior journalist Zahid Karani and Syed Turab Shah, Director Marketing of the ABN NEWS / Daily Ausaf Group of Newspapers, Chairman theazb.com adding warmth and goodwill to the occasion.
