Islamabad, The Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, Mr. Ahad Khan Cheema, met with Her Excellency Ms. Leslie Scanlon, High Commissioner of Canada to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad. The meeting was also attended by the Secretary and Additional Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division.
According to Press Information Department, Mr. Cheema welcomed Her Excellency and acknowledged Canada’s assistance to the Government of Pakistan during the 2022 floods and the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr. Cheema emphasized the importance of the energy sector as a main priority for the Government of Pakistan. Ms. Scanlon agreed, noting that Canada’s priorities are aligned with those of Pakistan and highlighted Canada’s focus on Carbon Credits, expressing hope that Pakistan might also work on Climate Finance.
The Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division (EAD) drew attention to the need for more development assistance for women’s empowerment in underdeveloped areas of Pakistan, where women have limited access to employment opportunities. The Secretary appreciated Canada’s contributions to education, health, and women’s empowerment but noted that technical assistance provided by Canada has decreased over time. He requested an enhancement of technical assistance between the two countries.