Canadian FM Anita Anand arrives in Islamabad

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand arrived in Islamabad on Monday, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar receiving her at the Foreign Office (FO).

Visuals shared by state-run PTV on the social media platform X showed Dar and Anand posing for pictures and shaking hands.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the FO said the visit is Anand’s first trip to Pakistan since assuming office. The FO said the visiting dignitary and Dar will hold bilateral talks “covering the entire spectrum of Pakistan-Canada relations”.

“The discussions will focus on strengthening cooperation in trade and investment, education, and people-to-people exchanges. The two ministers will also exchange views on regional and global developments of mutual interest,” the FO said.

It added that Anand will also call on the leadership of Pakistan. According to Global Affairs Canada, Anand is also expected to meet with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The FO stated that both Pakistan and Canada “maintain cordial bilateral relations anchored in close people-to-people ties enriched by the vibrant Pakistani diaspora in Canada”.

“This visit underscores the shared commitment of both countries to expand mutual cooperation,” it highlighted.