ISLAMABAD (APP) - Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh on Thursday met Canadian High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan to discuss the advance bilateral investment and economic cooperation.
Federal Minister for Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh held a high-level meeting here with the Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan Tarik Ali Khan to discuss avenues for strengthening bilateral investment ties and enhancing economic cooperation between Pakistan and Canada, said a release issued here.
The meeting was attended by Secretary BOI and SIFC Jamil Qureshi, Additional Secretary BOI Zulfiqar Ali, along with senior officials from the Board of Investment and representatives of the Canadian High Commission.
During the meeting, both sides engaged in detailed and constructive discussion on the proposed Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) between Pakistan and Canada. It was agreed that the second round of negotiations would be expected to take place in June this year. Both parties expressed optimism that the treaty would be finalized in the minimum possible rounds through continued engagement and mutual understanding.
Tarik Ali Khan highlighted significant opportunities for collaboration in key sectors including energy, agriculture, financial services, and critical minerals.
He noted that Canada possesses advanced expertise and technology in these areas and expressed keen interest in expanding Canadian investment footprint in Pakistan.
The discussion also covered cooperation in the agricultural sector, particularly focusing on Canadian canola, with both sides exploring avenues for enhanced trade and investment in this domain.
Tarik Ali Khan appreciated the proactive role of the Board of Investment and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in creating a conducive environment for foreign investors.
He acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts in facilitating business and improving investor confidence.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic relations with Canada and emphasised that the Government of Pakistan, through BOI, remains fully dedicated to facilitating investors, promoting ease of doing business, and unlocking new avenues for foreign direct investment.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides reiterating their resolve to deepen economic engagement and expedite progress on the Bilateral Investment Treaty.