ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Canada reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral trade and investment relations and agreed to work closely to enhance economic engagement.
Federal Minister for Board of Investment (BOI), Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, held an important meeting with H.E. Tarik Ali Khan, High Commissioner of Canada to Pakistan, and today in Islamabad.
The meeting was attended by Minister for Culture Mr. Aurangzeb Khichi and senior officials of the Board of Investment, said a release issued here on Wednesday.
Welcoming the Canadian delegation, the Federal Minister termed the growing bilateral trade between Pakistan and Canada as encouraging and positive.
He particularly appreciated Canada’s significant progress and breakthrough in the trade of canola, describing it as a strong example of expanding trade cooperation between the two countries.
During the meeting, the Canadian High Commissioner highlighted Canadian investments in Pakistan and cited JCM Power as a notable example of a Canadian company operating in the country. He underscored the importance of continued cooperation in energy and other priority sectors.
The Federal Minister briefed the delegation on Pakistan’s investment landscape and highlighted the role of the Investment and Business Facilitation Center, ongoing regulatory reforms, and incentives available under Special Economic Zones (SEZs) to promote ease of doing business.
Discussions were also held on potential investment opportunities in key sectors including agriculture, minerals, manufacturing, digitalization, and green energy, which were identified as areas of mutual interest.
Both sides agreed to resume negotiations on the Pakistan–Canada Investment Agreement at the earliest to further strengthen the institutional framework for investment cooperation.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh stated that this is an opportune time to invest in Pakistan and it is a suitable and attractive destination for investment, adding that the Government of Pakistan is fully committed to providing facilitation and support to foreign investors.
Minister for Culture Mr. Aurangzeb Khichi emphasized the importance of enhancing cultural cooperation between Pakistan and Canada and highlighted opportunities for collaboration in cultural initiatives.
Concluding the meeting, the Federal Minister reiterated that the Board of Investment remains committed to promoting sustainable and long-term investment in Pakistan.
