British High Commissioner Jane Marriott meets JUI-F chief, discuss regional situation

Celina Ali

Islamabad: British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, met with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Fazal) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman at his residence on Wednesday to discuss the rapidly evolving regional situation, including the recent escalation in tensions between Pakistan and India.

The two sides exchanged detailed views on regional peace, international developments, and the role of diplomacy in de-escalating potential conflict. The meeting came amid growing global concern over the deteriorating relationship between the nuclear-armed neighbors.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman condemned India’s recent actions, calling them “irresponsible and provocative.” He accused the Indian government of shifting the blame for its internal security failures onto Pakistan. “India is scapegoating Pakistan to hide its own security lapses,” he said.

He went on to criticize Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accusing him of endangering regional peace for political gain. “Modi is pushing both nations towards the brink of war to rescue his declining political image,” he warned.

Fazlur Rehman urged the United Kingdom and the international community to step forward and help defuse tensions. He emphasized that Pakistan’s government and opposition are united in their resolve to protect national sovereignty. “The nation will face Modi’s aggression with unity and determination,” he declared.

British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, in response, praised Pakistan’s commitment to peace and dialogue.

Marriott reaffirmed Britain’s desire to see de-escalation in South Asia and reiterated that the UK supports all efforts toward peace, dialogue, and regional stability.

She also acknowledged the importance of engaging with a broad spectrum of political voices in Pakistan, noting the influential role of religious and political leaders like Maulana Fazlur Rehman in promoting national unity and responsible discourse.