Islamabad, 21 December 2022 (TDI): The President of Pakistan, Arif Alvi, received the credentials of the High Commissioner of Canada to Pakistan, Leslie Scanlon.
The credentials were presented in the Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad at the Presentation of Credentials Ceremony.
Highlights from the credential ceremony
Accepting the letter of credential, the President highlighted the importance of trade ties between Pakistan & Canada.
In this vein, he stated, “There is great economic potential in our country. Canadian businesses should be encouraged to explore the opportunities available.”
Also read: President of Pakistan receives credentials of Ambassadors
Alvi described the resolution of the Reko-Diq project as a positive development and hoped that it would stimulate future Canadian investment in Pakistan.
“Both countries have cordial and friendly relations. We look forward to increased bilateral cooperation in the fields of economy, commerce, and investment.” President reiterated.
Pakistan-Canada ties
Both countries established diplomatic relations in 1947, shortly after Pakistan’s independence. Canada has a High Commission in Islamabad, a Consulate and Trade office in Karachi, and a Consulate in Lahore.
Likewise, Pakistan has a High Commission in Ottawa and Consulates General in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
Both countries are members of various international organizations including the United Nations (UN). They are also members of the Commonwealth, the Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process, a process related to security in Afghanistan.
The bilateral trade between both countries has risen to $1.2 billion in 2021. Pakistan is also the fifth largest source of immigration to Canada, with more than 250,000 Canadians of Pakistani origin living in the country.
Also read: Canada to reopen Visa Office in Islamabad
The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) and the Pakistan Western Canada Trade Association (PWCTA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) recently. It will promote trade & economic relations between countries.
It is pertinent to note that Canada has generously aided Pakistani flood victims. The country has contributed $33 million to the flood response and long-term recovery of flood victims.
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