Pakistan occupies a vital geo-strategic location in a volatile region, bordering Iran, Afghanistan, China and India.  The High Commission works closely with the Pakistani Government and civil society to prevent and resolve conflict, particularly by promoting peace, dialogue and reconciliation between the peoples of Pakistan on the one hand and India and Afghanistan in particular on the other.

Good governance and the promotion of democracy and human rights are a core part of the High Commission’s work, and crucial to Pakistan’s internal stability and prosperity.  Democracy has found it hard to take root in Pakistan, which has been ruled by military governments for around half its history.  Following the general election of February 2008, which was assessed as credible by the international community, the UK is committed to helping Pakistan consolidate its transition to a lasting democracy.