ISLAMABAD: The High Commission of the United Kingdom has reportedly raised the issue of M/s Halmore Power Company, which is currently under litigation with the government of Pakistan, well-informed sources told Business Recorder.
The matter involving UK-linked companies came under discussion during a meeting between Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari and Sam Waldock, Development Director at the British High Commission. The meeting focused on bilateral cooperation and the geo-strategic situation in the region.
According to an official statement issued by the Power Division, “During the meeting, Waldock also highlighted certain investment-related matters.
The Federal Minister assured that the Government of Pakistan would extend full facilitation, with the objective of improving the investment climate and advancing shared economic priorities.”
Previously, British high Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott CMG OBE had raised the issue of Halmore with Power Division.
READ MORE: Govt seeks details of working capital facilities availed by Halmore Power since 2010
In November last year, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) directed the Power Division and the Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) to act proactively and effectively to safeguard the government’s interests in international arbitration initiated by M/s Halmore Power Company.
The directive followed a notice of arbitration issued by Mian Karim-ud-Din, owner of the 225 MW Halmore Power Company, who has initiated proceedings before the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA).
The arbitration is based on alleged violations by Pakistan of the UK–Pakistan Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). While the claim amount has not been formally quantified, it is estimated at around USD 80 million.
The dispute centers on allegations that Pakistan’s actions adversely affected the claimant’s investment in the Halmore Power Generation Company. The claimant is seeking declaratory relief for alleged treaty violations, injunctive relief to halt further breaches, and compensation estimated at USD 80 million, along with interest and legal costs.
Under the dispute resolution mechanism of the BIT, the arbitration will proceed under the UNCITRAL Arbitration Rules 2021, which require Pakistan to submit its response to the notice of arbitration within one month of receipt—by November 8, 2025.
The Federal Minister appreciated the United Kingdom’s recognition of Pakistan’s constructive role in facilitating a ceasefire between the United States and Iran, as well as hosting peace negotiations. He said such acknowledgment reflects positively on Pakistan’s continued diplomatic engagement for regional peace and stability.
Sam Waldock commended the Government of Pakistan’s overall approach and its handling of the complex situation arising from Iran–US tensions. He noted that Pakistan has demonstrated resilience and sound judgment in maintaining stability across key sectors despite challenging circumstances.
He further stated that the United Kingdom places high importance on macroeconomic stability in Pakistan and remains committed to continued engagement and support in this regard.
The Federal Minister thanked the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) for its continued cooperation, describing it as an important pillar of bilateral partnership.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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