Pakistan and Canada have finished the third round of negotiations on a proposed Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) in Islamabad. Both governments want to deepen economic relations and encourage investment across their borders.
Federal Minister for the Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh and Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan Tariq Ali Khan attended the closing event. Both officials applauded their negotiating teams after three days of talks on the draft agreement.
Officials highlight a clearer framework for investors
Canadian High Commissioner Tariq Ali Khan said continued cooperation was key to producing a balanced treaty that eases investment, strengthens business confidence and supports economic ties that benefit both sides.
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Sheikh praised the teams for their dedication and professionalism. He said the agreement could give investors a more predictable and transparent structure, and that Pakistan was working to improve its investment climate and widen opportunities for Canadian investors.
Renewable energy, mining and IT seen as priority sectors
Sheikh identified four sectors with potential for cooperation:
- Renewable energy
- Mining
- Agriculture
- Information technology
Negotiators sign minutes of the talks
Representatives of both teams signed the minutes at the closing ceremony, formally recording the proceedings of the third round. The outcome reflects both countries’ continued push to move the treaty forward and build a base for long-term investment partnerships.
The proposed agreement is expected to raise investor confidence, expand economic engagement and create more business opportunities in both countries.