ISLAMABAD: Officials from the United Kingdom (UK) and Pakistan on Thursday came together to light a beacon to celebrate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth`s Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years of her reign.

The event was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad on Thursday night, coinciding with beacon lighting ceremonies in every capital city across the Commonwealth. Acting British High Commissioner in Pakistan Richard Crowder and Pakistan`s Additional Secretary (Europe) Dr Israr Hussain simultaneously held the torch as a symbol of friendship and closeness between both countries.

This year marked not only the Queen`s 70-year reign but also marked 75 years of relations between UK and Pakistan.

Mr Crowder said: `Lighting this beacon represents 70 years of the reign of Her Majesty The Queen and also the importance of the Commonwealth.` The Queen is the first British monarch to have a Platinum Jubilee. Staff Reporter