Summary Canada’s Secretary of State John Zerucelli praised Pakistan’s diplomatic role in the Iran-US conflict and advocated expanding bilateral trade and economic ties.
TORONTO (Muhammad Hasan Raza) - Canada’s Secretary of State (Labour) John Zerucelli has described Pakistan’s role in promoting peace during the Iran-US conflict as highly positive and commendable, saying that Pakistan chose dialogue and diplomacy over confrontation at a critical time.
He said Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions are viewed positively in Canada, while emphasizing that Pakistan and Canada have significant potential to expand trade, investment and economic cooperation and transform their existing commercial ties into a broader, long-term economic partnership.
In an exclusive interview with Dunya News, Zerucelli said Pakistan played an important mediating and diplomatic role during tensions between Iran and the United States.
Pakistan emerged as an important voice for peace, while its efforts to resolve differences through dialogue contributed positively towards reducing tensions and creating space for peace.
“The world today needs dialogue, diplomacy and responsible leadership rather than further confrontation, and Pakistan has played a role in that direction,” Zerucelli said.
He noted that Pakistan’s contribution to peace was important not only for the region but also for broader international stability.
He said the support of Pakistan’s political and military leadership for dialogue, peace and regional stability was viewed positively.
Zerucelli also acknowledged the role of Pakistan’s current military leadership in promoting regional peace and stability, saying such efforts could contribute towards establishing sustainable peace in the region.
Turning to economic relations between Canada and Pakistan, the Canadian Secretary of State said there was considerable room to expand bilateral trade.
Canada is exploring new international markets and trading partnerships as it seeks to diversify its economic relationships, while Pakistan, because of its geographical location, large population and regional connectivity, could emerge as an important market.
He said Pakistan has the potential to serve as an important commercial link between South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East.
Canadian companies could explore opportunities in Pakistan in agriculture, technology, energy and several other sectors, while Pakistani products also have significant potential to expand their presence in the Canadian market.
Zerucelli stressed that Canada and Pakistan should move beyond traditional imports and exports and focus increasingly on investment, joint ventures and long-term business partnerships.
He said economic relations with Pakistan should not be confined merely to the exchange of goods but should increasingly encompass investment, technology, business connectivity and shared economic interests.
“Canada and Pakistan can open a new chapter in their relationship through peace, trade, investment and economic cooperation,” he said.
Zerucelli welcomed the opening of new opportunities for international investment in Pakistan and said further improvements in the country’s business and investment environment could create new opportunities for both countries.
He said Pakistan should continue its journey towards economic stability while placing greater emphasis on trade and investment. A strong and stable Pakistani economy, he added, could create important opportunities for Canadian as well as other international investors.
The Canadian Secretary of State said Pakistan should be viewed not merely as a large market but also as an important partner for peace, trade and economic connectivity in the region.
He emphasized that the time had come to take Canada-Pakistan relations beyond traditional diplomacy and build stronger ties around trade, investment and shared economic interests.
Canadian Secretary of State John Zerucelli said that the organization of Canada Gateway Expo 2026 under the leadership of Rana Muhammad Tanveer is an excellent initiative.
He expressed confidence that the event would be of a high standard and would help bring the business communities of Pakistan and Canada closer together.
He said Rana Muhammad Tanveer is doing commendable work to strengthen trade, investment and business ties between Pakistan and Canada, adding that Canada Gateway Expo 2026 would serve as an effective platform for creating new business and investment opportunities for both countries.
John Zerucelli is a member of the Canadian Prime Minister’s team and currently performs important responsibilities within the government. He also has experience in tariff, trade and negotiation-related matters and has worked on international economic issues at different levels.
