Pakistan envoy praises Tariq Sheikh’s UK economic contribution – Daily Times
Maleeha Zahid
Published Date: August 9, 2026
Published On: Daily Times
Pakistan’s newly appointed High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Tipu Usman, has praised British-Pakistani entrepreneur Tariq Sheikh for his contribution to the UK economy and community. Usman made the remarks during a meeting with Sheikh at the Pakistan High Commission in London. He congratulated Sheikh on receiving the Freedom of the City of London for his work in the halal meat industry, entrepreneurship, employment and community service. The envoy described his achievements as an important British-Pakistani success story.
Usman said Sheikh’s success demonstrated the valuable role Pakistani communities play in Britain’s economic and social development. He noted that while negative incidents involving some British-Pakistanis often receive significant attention, the wider contributions of successful members of the community are frequently overlooked. He said Pakistanis across Britain are contributing to business, education, medicine, law, technology and public services. These activities also create jobs and contribute billions of pounds to the British economy.
The high commissioner described Sheikh’s achievements as a source of pride for Pakistan and said they reflected the entrepreneurial potential of the Pakistani diaspora. He highlighted the importance of recognising successful Pakistanis who contribute to Britain while maintaining strong connections with their country of origin. Sheikh’s recognition through the Freedom of the City of London also reflects his contribution to British business and community life. Usman said such achievements strengthen the positive image of Pakistanis living abroad.
During the meeting, Sheikh briefed the high commissioner on plans to launch new projects and investments in Pakistan as part of his company’s future expansion. He expressed interest in working closely with the Pakistan High Commission to develop these initiatives. The proposed projects could create additional opportunities for trade, investment and employment between the two countries. Sheikh’s plans also demonstrate how overseas Pakistanis can contribute directly to Pakistan’s economic development.
Sheikh said he remained proud of his Pakistani roots and wanted his growing business to strengthen economic links between Britain and Pakistan. He said the company planned to expand its retail presence across Britain while increasing the amount of products sourced from Pakistan. The strategy could create new opportunities for Pakistani suppliers and businesses while supporting employment in both countries. Increased sourcing could also help deepen commercial ties between the two markets.
The meeting highlighted the wider economic potential of the Pakistani diaspora and its ability to build stronger links between Pakistan and Britain. Sheikh’s business expansion plans could support greater trade, investment and employment while giving Pakistani businesses access to international markets. Meanwhile, the high commissioner’s remarks emphasised the importance of recognising positive contributions made by British-Pakistanis. Stronger cooperation between the diaspora, businesses and Pakistani institutions could further strengthen economic relations between the two countries.
