Call on the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs by Canadian Member of the Parliament

Ms. Salma Zahid, MP Liberal Party in the Canadian House of Commons, called on the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs (SAPM), Syed Tariq Fatemi, on 12 January 2016.

Welcoming the MP, the SAPM congratulated her on the resounding success of her party under the leadership of Prime Minister Justin Turdeau. He added that Party’s message of change resonated with the deepest aspirations of the Canadian people.

During the meeting, various aspects of Pakistan-Canada cooperation in the economic, trade, investment, energy, health and education sector were discussed. Possible ways and means to further consolidate the bilateral cooperation through high-level political visits, as well as exchange of parliamentary and business delegations, were also considered. Both sides endorsed the need to build a broad-based, long-term and sustainable partnership between Pakistan and Canada. It was also noted that further efforts were required to ease the difficulties faced by Pakistani traders and businessmen in obtaining the Canadian visa and to encourage the business community on both sides equally, to participate in important trade fairs organized by the two countries.

The SAPM also underscored the significance of the positive contribution made by the Pakistani community in the development of Canadian economy and in promoting Pakistan Canada ties. He added that the convincing victory of Ms. Salma Zahid in recent elections amply demonstrated the strength of Canadian nationals of Pakistani origin.

Ms. Salma Zahid lauded the services of around 500,000 strong Pakistani diaspora across Canada, which were being fully recognized by the Canadian government as well.

Islamabad
12 January 2016

15/2016