Ministers from the UK and Pakistan have held a business forum in London to encourage companies from both countries to bolster their international trade links.

The UK-Pakistan Energy and Infrastructure Forum took place on December 1st and saw political and business decision-makers convening to discuss high-value investment and export opportunities between the two nations.

More than 150 businesses from the UK, Pakistan and China attended the event, which focused on the energy and infrastructure sectors, where the UK and Pakistan have already established strong partnerships.

Lord Maude, the UK minister for trade and investment, said: "There has never been a better time for British businesses to invest in Pakistan and I am confident this forum will build partnerships to create jobs and economic growth in both countries."

More than 100 British businesses currently operate in Pakistan, which has been identified as a key target market for the UK government's commitment to increase British exports, due to its growing economy.

A Prosperity Fund of £1.3 billion was recently launched to promote the economic reform and development needed for growth in partner countries, including Pakistan, over the next five years.