ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – At the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, the Honourable Anita Anand, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Canada, paid an official visit to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on July 20, 2026. This visit marked Foreign Minister Anita Anand’s first diplomatic engagement in Pakistan since assuming her current office.

Bilateral Consultations and Diplomatic Engagement

The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister received Foreign Minister Anita Anand at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for a comprehensive one-on-one meeting, followed by detailed discussions covering the broad contours of Pakistan-Canada bilateral ties and various issues of mutual interest. Acknowledging the renewed momentum in bilateral engagement, both sides expressed a shared resolve to strengthen their relationship through increased trade, investment, and enhanced people-to-people exchanges.

Regional Stability and Security Cooperation

During the session, the Deputy Prime Minister provided an update on Pakistan’s mediation efforts regarding the ongoing regional conflict. Foreign Minister Anand expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s pivotal role that led to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. Both parties underscored the necessity for a sustainable ceasefire and the strict upholding of commitments defined within the Islamabad MoU. Furthermore, both nations reiterated their dedication to addressing global challenges and promoting regional prosperity. The two leaders also discussed Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand Meets Army Chief Syed Asim Munir to further align on security perspectives.

Economic Ties and Strategic Trade Partnerships

Emphasizing trade and investment as primary drivers for economic resilience, the Ministers welcomed progress toward a Pakistan-Canada Foreign Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement (FIPA). Both nations agreed to revive the Pakistan-Canada Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment. Discussions also focused on diversifying business opportunities in sectors such as clean energy, mining, and emerging technologies. As part of this renewed economic partnership, both nations celebrated a significant milestone in agricultural trade; as detailed in recent reports, Pakistan and Canada Sign Bilateral Phytosanitary Protocol for Canola Trade, further solidifying the agricultural value chain.

Energy, Infrastructure, and Development

Recognizing the strategic importance of energy security, the Ministers encouraged increased investments in renewable sources, including solar, wind, and battery storage. Notably, the successful bid by Canadian company JCM Power for the 240 MW Dhabeji Hybrid Wind-Solar Project, in partnership with K-Electric, has received the necessary regulatory approvals, marking a major contribution to Pakistan’s energy infrastructure.

People-to-People Ties and Future Outlook

Acknowledging the contributions of the 300,000-strong Pakistani diaspora and the 9,000 students currently residing in Canada, both ministers reaffirmed the importance of cultural and parliamentary exchanges. To address developmental needs, Minister Anand announced new assistance projects focusing on education, climate resilience, and public health. Both sides agreed that the Pakistan-Canada relationship has entered a new era of opportunity, committing to review progress annually through sustained high-level engagements.