Major General Karl Harris of the British Army has publicly praised the historic role of Pakistani and Muslim soldiers who served under the British flag during the First and Second World Wars. He made these comments on the eve of Armistice Day while signing the Armed Forces Covenant with British Pakistani businessman Dr Tariq Sheikh.
The general highlighted how soldiers from what was then British India, today’s Pakistan, fought to defend Britain in both world wars. He stressed that Remembrance and the anniversary of the Armistice serve as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made for the freedoms people enjoy today. Britain has one Army, he said, and it belongs to all its communities as much as to those in uniform.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, Major General Karl Harris noted the shared history between the British Army and people of South Asian heritage. He recalled that his own maternal grandfather served in the Indian Army in Burma, just as many relatives of the guests present had done in the same theatre of war. His visit, he explained, was about building connection, celebrating community and recognising that common heritage.
Dr Tariq Sheikh, known as one of the largest suppliers of halal meat in the UK and Europe, also addressed the gathering. He shared that he was born in Gujrat in the Punjab region of Pakistan and that his wife comes from Jhelum. For a hundred years, he said, Jhelum sent its sons into the British Indian Army. The Pakistan Army itself was born from that same force in 1947, carrying forward the same regiments, discipline and pride.
He then delivered a clear message to young British Pakistanis: this military tradition belongs to them. This is their country and this is their Army. He urged them to serve in it, join the reserves, encourage their children to join the cadets and keep the tradition alive. The Armed Forces Covenant will be displayed in his company’s shops across the country, alongside a call for customers to join the Forces and support them with pride.
The agreement aims to open more employment opportunities for military personnel, assist veterans moving into civilian life and increase recognition of military service within the private sector.
