*Shahbaz appreciates Britain’s support for promotion of democratic values
*Envoy says UK to continue cooperation with Pakistan for its development, progress
British Queen Elizabeth has proved strength of her character and abilities through public service, said Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif on the birthday function of the British queen at a local hotel on Monday. British High Commissioner Philip Barton, diplomats, provincial ministers, politicians, intellectuals and prominent personalities belonging to various walks of life were also present on the occasion.
Congratulating on the occasion, Shahbaz Sharif said that Britain is a big trade partner of Pakistan and always extended cooperation for the promotion of democratic values in the country.
He said that British cooperation in education, health and other sectors in Punjab is commendable. The chief minister said that a revolutionary programme of educational reforms is being implemented in Punjab with the collaboration of the DFID while healthcare programme is also being started with its cooperation. He said that the Punjab government has recruited one hundred and forty thousand teachers on merit in the last few years whereas forty thousand youth have been made skilful through the Skill Development Programme with the help of the DFID.
The British high commissioner while addressing in Urdu and English said that Britain wants a stable democracy in Pakistan and it is a matter of pleasure that democracy is strengthening in Pakistan. He said that Britain will continue to cooperate with Pakistan and Punjab.
