Pakistan, Canada to accelerate FIPA negotiations

Mettis Global reported that Pakistan and Canada will speed up talks on a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, better known as FIPA. The move followed a meeting in which Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan received Canadian High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan at the ministry, with senior officials present. Both governments pledged to broaden ties in several sectors, from farming and extractive industries to clean power and air travel.

The next negotiating round, due during the first week of October, offers a chance to settle pending issues. The Canadian envoy called the accord a foundational step for more Canadian investment, saying legal protection and arbitration channels would give investors greater assurance. The minister pledged full government support and instructed officials to hold preparatory consultations that narrow differences before the round.

Discussions also touched on renewable energy, including a proposed hybrid project in Jhimpir, and mining, where a Canadian delegation is expected at an upcoming minerals forum. Agriculture was another focus, with talk of canola processing, dairy and edible oils, while aviation discussions noted the value of PIA's direct Toronto service. The report added that more than 300,000 people of Pakistani descent in Canada could help build investment and business links.