Bangkok: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, engaged in discussions with the Honourable Randeep Sarai, Canada’s Secretary of State for International Development, during the World Bank Group-IMF Annual Meetings 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand. The meeting aimed at enhancing bilateral economic cooperation between Pakistan and Canada.

According to Press Information Department, the Finance Minister emphasized Pakistan’s economic stabilization efforts and advocated for the advancement of an investment protection agreement to attract Canadian investment. The discussions included potential collaborations in sectors such as agriculture, agrotechnology, livestock, and food security, with a focus on private-sector engagement.

The dialogue also addressed the Barrick mining project, including its security review, financing arrangements, and its anticipated impact on exports and employment. Opportunities in IT services, artificial intelligence skills development, virtual assets, and the role of the Pakistani diaspora, particularly regarding remittances from Canada, were also highlighted.

Both parties shared perspectives on Pakistan’s mediation initiatives and the regional conflict’s implications for energy and fertilizer supplies, as well as global food security. The Finance Minister expressed gratitude to Canada for its flood assistance, identified tourism as a potential area for further cooperation, and extended an invitation to Mr. Sarai to visit Pakistan.