Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has acknowledged the significant contributions made by the Pakistani diaspora in Canada, emphasizing their role as a crucial link between the two nations. He expressed these sentiments during a meeting with the newly appointed High Commissioner of Canada to Pakistan, Ambassador Tarik Ali Khan, who made a courtesy call on the Prime Minister in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, the meeting was also attended by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi and Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch. During the discussion, Prime Minister Sharif congratulated the High Commissioner on his new role and conveyed his optimism that Ambassador Khan’s tenure would further enhance the longstanding and amicable relations between Pakistan and Canada.

Prime Minister Sharif extended his warm regards to the Canadian leadership and expressed his eagerness to collaborate with them in strengthening bilateral ties. He highlighted the sector of mines and minerals as an area of mutual interest, noting that Barrick Gold’s involvement in the Reko Diq project could become a hallmark of development in Pakistan and a model of successful Pakistan-Canada economic cooperation.

In response, the Canadian High Commissioner expressed gratitude for the warm reception and stated his commitment to improving Pakistan-Canada bilateral relations. He identified key areas for potential cooperation, including agriculture, energy, trade, investment, technology, education, and fostering people-to-people connections.