Pakistan and Canada have agreed to revive trade and investment cooperation and strengthen economic ties during the official visit of Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to Islamabad.
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Anita Anand, who arrived in Pakistan on a historic visit, met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister House, where both sides discussed bilateral relations, economic cooperation and opportunities for expanding business partnerships. The prime minister also witnessed the signing ceremony of an import protocol for Canadian canola.
The Canadian foreign minister also held talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. According to a joint statement issued after the meetings, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to promoting trade, investment, people-to-people contacts and high-level exchanges.
Canada appreciated Pakistan’s role in regional mediation efforts and its contribution toward reaching the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Ottawa also expressed support for ceasefire efforts and implementation of the agreement.
The two countries agreed to accelerate negotiations on the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA) and reactivate the Pakistan-Canada Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment to enhance commercial engagement.
The joint statement highlighted plans to increase cooperation in several sectors, including clean energy, mining, agriculture, infrastructure, advanced technology and environmental protection. Both sides expressed interest in creating more opportunities for investors and businesses.
Canada also announced continued cooperation with Pakistan in counterterrorism efforts through international platforms including the United Nations and Interpol. It further pledged development assistance in areas such as education, healthcare and climate change initiatives.
During discussions, Pakistan and Canada also exchanged views on regional and global issues, including Afghanistan, terrorism, peace and security. Both countries agreed to maintain cooperation at international forums, including the United Nations.
Separately, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand met Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, where discussions focused on cooperation against illegal immigration, human trafficking and cybercrime.
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She also held a meeting with Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, during which Pakistan’s position on global peace and regional stability was highlighted.
The visit marks an important step in strengthening Pakistan-Canada relations, with both countries seeking to expand economic cooperation and deepen diplomatic engagement in areas of mutual interest.