Canada's foreign minister arrives in Pakistan on first official visit

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand arrived in Pakistan on Monday for her first official visit since taking office, as the two countries seek to deepen bilateral relations through talks on trade, investment, education and regional issues.

She is visiting Islamabad at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.

Why is Canada's foreign minister visiting Pakistan?

Anita Anand is visiting Pakistan to hold bilateral talks with Pakistani leaders aimed at strengthening diplomatic relations. The discussions will focus on trade, investment, education, people-to-people exchanges and regional and international developments, reflecting both countries' efforts to expand cooperation.

According to Pakistan's foreign ministry, Anand's visit demonstrates the shared commitment of Islamabad and Ottawa to strengthening diplomatic and economic ties. She is expected to hold comprehensive talks with Dar covering the full spectrum of Pakistan-Canada relations.

The agenda includes efforts to expand cooperation in trade and investment, enhance educational links and promote greater people-to-people exchanges. The two sides will also exchange views on regional and international developments of mutual interest.

Who will Anita Anand meet during the visit?

In addition to her talks with Dar, the Canadian foreign minister is expected to call on Pakistan's senior leadership during her official engagements in Islamabad.

Pakistan and Canada have maintained longstanding diplomatic relations supported by extensive people-to-people connections and a large Pakistani diaspora in Canada. Pakistan's foreign ministry said the visit reflects the two countries' shared resolve to broaden cooperation and further strengthen bilateral ties.