Islamabad: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar says heartiest congratulations to all Pakistanis, especially our diaspora in the United Kingdom on lifting of ban on Pakistan International Airlines' (PIA) flights to the UK.

In a statement issued on X on Wednesday, Ishaq Dar said 'I am happy to share that the ban on Pakistan International Airlines' (PIA) flights to the UK has been lifted'.

He said that the foundation for this breakthrough was laid during the last PDM Government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (2022-23) when we undertook critical reforms, including three legislations, enabling PIA and CAA to meet ICAO's requirements leading to resumption of flights to Europe in November 2024.

'We have made concerted diplomatic efforts, in addition to technical and regulatory compliances, with the UK authorities on this matter to ensure an earliest lifting of the ban. Its never too late!' Ishaq Dar said.