Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand arrived in Pakistan today (Monday) for an official visit at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. This marks Anand’s first trip to Pakistan since taking office.
During her visit, both leaders will head delegations to engage in comprehensive bilateral discussions encompassing the full range of Pakistan-Canada relations. The talks aim to enhance cooperation in key sectors such as trade, investment, education, and people-to-people connections.
Canada and Pakistan share strong ties, highlighted by a significant diaspora presence. Over 300,000 Canadians are of Pakistani origin, while approximately 20,000 Canadians reside in Pakistan, underscoring the deep-rooted people-to-people links between the two countries.
In a joint statement, the Foreign Office emphasized the cordial relationship maintained by both nations, anchored in these close diaspora connections. The visit reflects a mutual commitment to broaden collaboration across various fields.
Beyond bilateral matters, the delegations will also discuss regional and global developments of shared interest. This visit follows recent economic engagements, including last month’s second round of negotiations in Canada on a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement with Pakistan. Earlier in February, the two countries reaffirmed their focus on expanding trade and investment during the sixth round of Bilateral Political Consultations held in Islamabad.
After concluding her engagements in Pakistan, Foreign Minister Anand is scheduled to travel to the Philippines to participate in meetings of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
