British High Commissioner Jane Marriott joins emotional tribute to Sir Anwar Pervez in Islamabad

Celina Ali

Islamabad: A grand and emotionally charged evening in Islamabad paid tribute to the extraordinary journey and monumental accomplishments of Sir Anwar Pervez, the celebrated British Pakistani billionaire and founder of the Bestway Group.

The event, held at a prestigious local hotel, was hosted by Lord Zameer Choudrey CBE in honour of his uncle, Sir Anwar Pervez, to commemorate his inspiring life, enduring values, and transformative achievements. It was a night dedicated to celebrating a legacy that continues to resonate across borders and generations.

The gathering drew an impressive array of distinguished guests, including prominent figures from both Pakistan and the United Kingdom. Among the high-profile attendees were Jane Marriott, the British High Commissioner to Pakistan, and Lord Wajid Khan of Burnley, a UK government minister. Both dignitaries spoke warmly of Sir Anwar’s extraordinary business triumphs in the UK and highlighted the pivotal role he and the Bestway Group have played in strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

Esteemed personalities such as Dr Maleeha Lodhi, Pakistan’s former Ambassador to the United Nations, the United States, and the United Kingdom, and Dr Ishrat Hussain, an acclaimed economist and former Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, also graced the occasion. They offered heartfelt reflections on Sir Anwar’s character, applauding not only his unparalleled achievements in the UK but also his lasting impact on Pakistan through his generous philanthropic and business ventures.

The event was further elevated by the presence of Jameel Ahmad, the current Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, alongside senior government officials, influential members of the business fraternity, and leaders from civil society — all united in their admiration for a man whose story continues to inspire with its depth and purpose.

In a deeply personal tribute, Lord Zameer Choudrey spoke with affection and reverence about Sir Anwar, crediting him as a guiding influence and a beacon of resilience and leadership whose values shaped his own life and many others.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was the unveiling of a touching biography chronicling the remarkable life of Sir Anwar Pervez. The book traces his incredible transformation from his humble beginnings in the village of Thathi, Pakistan, to becoming one of the most respected and successful business figures in the United Kingdom. The biography stands not only as a record of his life’s milestones but also as a timeless source of inspiration for generations to come.

Sir Anwar’s journey is one of grit, foresight, and an enduring commitment to giving back. Having migrated to the UK in 1956, he worked relentlessly to build a future for himself and his loved ones. His entrepreneurial spirit eventually led to the establishment of Bestway Group, which has evolved into a global conglomerate valued at £5 billion, employing more than 47,000 people worldwide, and ranking among Pakistan’s largest foreign investors.

Beyond his business empire, Sir Anwar is widely celebrated for his deep-rooted dedication to philanthropy, particularly in Pakistan. Through the Bestway Group, he has contributed extensively to initiatives in education, healthcare, and community development — efforts that have earned him some of the highest national and international honours, including a Knighthood from the British Crown and the Hilal-i-Pakistan from the Government of Pakistan.