ISLAMABAD: Canada has announced more than $47 million in funding for security cooperation and development initiatives in Pakistan, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations. The announcement came during the official visit of Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, who held high level talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.
During a joint press briefing, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, security, education, agriculture, and climate resilience. They also agreed to hold annual bilateral meetings to review progress and enhance institutional collaboration.
Ishaq Dar said Pakistan values its longstanding relationship with Canada, which is supported by a vibrant Pakistani community living in Canada. He invited Canadian businesses to invest in priority sectors, including energy, critical minerals, information technology, education, infrastructure, and agriculture.
A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a canola import protocol, witnessed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The agreement establishes clear phytosanitary conditions for Canadian canola imports while encouraging technical cooperation in food safety and agricultural trade.
The two sides also agreed to accelerate negotiations on the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPPA), which is expected to boost investor confidence and encourage greater economic cooperation.
During her visit, Anita Anand announced over $2.2 million for projects focused on border management, counter terrorism, financial crime investigations, and law enforcement training through partnerships with Interpol, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Additionally, Canada pledged $45 million in development assistance to support climate resilience, girls’ education, reproductive health, family planning, and flood recovery projects across Pakistan.
Later, Anand met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, where both leaders discussed expanding cooperation in renewable energy, mining, automobile manufacturing, vaccine production, and agri food industries. They also agreed to increase trade delegations and deepen economic engagement, reflecting a shared commitment to long term partnership and sustainable development between Pakistan and Canada.
