The British government has made history by appointing Jane Marriott as the first female high commissioner to Pakistan. Marriott, who will assume her position in mid-July, expressed her enthusiasm about the appointment, stating that she had previously visited Pakistan twice and was eager to deepen her understanding of this culturally rich and diverse country. Recognizing the shared history between the United Kingdom and Pakistan, she emphasized the importance of strengthening the partnership and enhancing people-to-people ties.
Delighted to be appointed as the next British High Commissioner to Pakistan!
🇬🇧 & 🇵🇰are connected by heritage, strong people ties, climate cooperation & growing trade. Dosti & Commonwealth links can ensure a prosperous future.
Aap se jald mulaqat hogi!https://t.co/hfhFs5yUcz
— Jane Marriott (@JaneMarriottUK) June 15, 2023
Before her current appointment, Marriott served as the high commissioner to Kenya from September 2019 to June 2023. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in establishing the UK-Kenya Strategic Partnership, which fostered cooperation in areas such as mutual prosperity, sustainable development, security, stability, and addressing climate change. Under her leadership, several significant initiatives were launched, including clean and sustainable energy projects, the establishment of the first-ever Kenyan Marine Commando Unit to combat terrorism, and the restoration of deforested land. Furthermore, she spearheaded the UK’s collaboration with Kenyan tech industry stakeholders through the ‘Digital Access Programme’ to promote digital inclusion, cyber hygiene, and the regulation of online content.
Marriott brings a wealth of experience to her new role as high commissioner, having joined the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in 2001. She has held various positions, including director of the UK’s Joint International Counter-Terrorism Unit, joint FCDO Director for the Middle East and North Africa, ambassador to Sana’a, Yemen (2013-15), deputy and acting ambassador to Tehran, and advisor to the US special representative to Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke. She has also undertaken diplomatic postings in Iraq and Afghanistan.
