Pakistan's Acting High Commissioner to Canada Shahbaz Malik lauds Canada's invaluable support to Pakistan in COVID-19 pandemic.
Addressing a gathering of members of the Pakistani diaspora, local dignitaries, and members of diplomatic corps at a Qawwali performance in Ottawa, he expressed the confidence that bilateral relations between Pakistan and Canada would further expand.
He underlined the importance of cultural linkages between people and their role in strengthening bilateral relations and described the Qawwali event as an effort to introduce the Canadians to Pakistan's vibrant music and culture.
Speaking on the occasion Assistant Deputy Minister, Global Affairs Canada Paul Thoppil described Pakistan-Canada relationship as being strong and underpinned by strong people-to-people ties.
He said Pakistan is the fifth largest source of immigration to Canada with more than 250,000 Canadians of Pakistani origin living in Canada.
He highlighted a significant high-level engagement over the past year between both countries, including calls between foreign ministers of both countries as well as a visit of Canada's deputy foreign minister to Pakistan.
Paul Thoppil appreciated the growth in bilateral trade which has risen to 1.2 billion dollars in 2021. He also underscored a recent signing of framework by Canada's Barrack Gold for re-launching of Reko Diq mining project in Pakistan.
The event was dedicated to the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the diplomatic relationship between Pakistan and Canada as well as 75th Independence Day of Pakistan falling this year.
Source: Radio Pakistan