Syed Tabish
Karachi: Thomas Peter Harry Burge, Deputy Head of Mission at the British Deputy High Commission Karachi, 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 made these remarks during an interaction with senior journalists at a dinner hosted in collaboration with the management of Hotel Mehran at its Killey Restaurant.
‘Reality Different from Perception’
Mr Burge said that prior to his arrival in Pakistan, he had reservations based on negative international reports about security conditions, particularly in 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.
He added that Karachi’s energy, diversity and economic dynamism distinguish it from other cities in the region.
Karachi’s Role in National Economy
Referring to Karachi as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, the British diplomat noted the city’s central role in trade, finance and industry. He observed that improvements in the security environment have strengthened business confidence and revitalised social and commercial activity.
Strengthening UK-Pakistan Relations
Speaking about bilateral relations, Mr Burge said ties between the United Kingdom and Pakistan are steadily strengthening. He pointed to expanding cooperation in education, trade, climate action and people-to-people exchanges as evidence of a long-term strategic partnership.
The event was attended by members of the diplomatic community, including Emmanuel Breurec, Director of Alliance Française de Karachi; Bambang Purwanto, Consul (Social and Cultural Affairs) representing the Indonesian Consul General; and Mudzakir of the Republic of Indonesia in Karachi.
The guests were received by Mohammed Yousuf, Director Sales and Marketing of Hotel Mehran, who presented bouquets upon their arrival.
Cricket and Cuisine
Sharing lighter moments during the interaction, Mr Burge said he has developed a fondness for Pakistani cuisine, naming chicken biryani, barbecue, lassi, doodh pati chai and traditional desserts among his favourites. He remarked that Karachi’s culinary diversity mirrors its multicultural character.
An avid cricket enthusiast, he said he closely follows the sport and would 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.
Evening Concludes on Celebratory Note
The gathering concluded with a pre-birthday cake-cutting ceremony in honour of senior journalist Zahid Karani and Syed Turab Shah, Director Marketing of the Daily Ausaf Group of Newspapers, adding warmth to the diplomatic-media engagement.
