KARACHI: Calling Karachi the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, Thomas Peter Harry Burge, Deputy Head of Mission at the British Deputy High Commission, expressed satisfaction over the city’s law and order situation, describing it as a vibrant metropolis that “never sleeps.”
He was speaking during an interaction with senior journalists at a dinner hosted in collaboration with the management of Hotel Mehran at its Killey Restaurant.
Burge said before arriving in Pakistan, he had some reservations owing to negative reports circulating internationally about security conditions in the country, 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, adding that the city’s energy and diversity make it unique.
Referring to Karachi as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, he noted that the city plays a central role in trade, finance, and industry. He observed that improvements in the security environment had positively impacted business confidence and social activities.
Speaking about bilateral ties, Burge said relations between the United Kingdom and Pakistan were steadily strengthening.
He noted that cooperation in areas such as education, trade, climate, and people-to-people contacts continued to grow, reflecting a shared commitment to a long-term partnership.
The event was attended by prominent members of the diplomatic community, including Emmanuel BREUREC, Director of Alliance Française; Bambang Purwanto, newly arrived Consul (Social and Cultural Affairs) representing the Consul General of Indonesia; and Mudzakir, MA, of the Republic of Indonesia in Karachi.
Upon arrival, the distinguished guests were warmly received by Mohammed Yousuf, Director Sales and Marketing of Hotel Mehran, who presented bouquets as a gesture of welcome.
Sharing lighter moments during the interaction, Burge said he had developed a particular fondness for Pakistani cuisine. He mentioned chicken biryani, barbecue, lassi, doodh pati chai and traditional desserts among his favourites. He remarked that the culinary diversity of Karachi reflected the city’s multicultural character.
Describing himself as an avid cricket fan, the UK diplomat said he closely follows the sport and would certainly 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.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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