Canada FM announces $47.2 million in security and development support during Pakistan visit
The announcement was made by Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand during her official visit to Pakistan. It marks the first bilateral visit by a Canadian foreign minister in almost two decades and highlights growing cooperation between the two countries.
Canada announces $47.2 million for Pakistan
Speaking alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Anita Anand confirmed $47.2 million for Pakistan, including more than $2.2 million for security projects and $45 million for development programmes.
The new Canada development assistance Pakistan package will support climate resilience, disaster recovery, education, healthcare and community development.
According to Anita Anand, the funding reflects Canada's commitment to expanding cooperation with Pakistan.
Security funding to strengthen cooperation
The Canada security funding Pakistan programme will finance three new initiatives in partnership with Interpol, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
The projects will focus on border management, counter-terrorism, financial crime investigations and specialised training for law enforcement agencies.
Officials said the Canada security funding Pakistan initiative will help strengthen institutional cooperation between the two countries.
Trade and investment remain key focus
During the talks, both sides discussed expanding Canada Pakistan trade and increasing investment opportunities.
Anita Anand said Canada wants to diversify its international trade and sees Pakistan as an important partner. She confirmed both countries are working to finalise a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement to encourage business and investment.
She also welcomed Pakistan's imports of more than 470,000 tonnes of Canadian canola and expressed hope that more Pakistani products, including rice, textiles and sporting goods, would enter Canadian markets. Officials said stronger Canada Pakistan trade could benefit businesses in both countries.
Also Read: Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand arrives in Pakistan for key talks
Ishaq Dar welcomes stronger ties
During the Ishaq Dar Canada talks, the deputy prime minister said Pakistan values its long-standing partnership with Canada based on mutual respect and cooperation.
Dar noted that both countries have significant potential to increase collaboration in trade, investment, defence and security.
He also highlighted the contribution of the Pakistani community living in Canada as an important bridge between the two nations.
Officials described the Anita Anand Pakistan visit as an important step toward expanding bilateral engagement after nearly 20 years without a bilateral visit by a Canadian foreign minister.
Focus on regional issues
Anita Anand also acknowledged Pakistan's diplomatic role in promoting dialogue on Middle East tensions. She urged all parties to exercise restraint and prioritise the protection of civilians.
Both countries exchanged views on regional developments and agreed to continue working together on international issues of mutual concern.
