Pakistan, Canada begin third round of investment treaty talks to boost business ties
By The South Asia Times
ISLAMABAD - Pakistan and Canada began a three-day round of negotiations on a proposed Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) on Monday, seeking to establish a more predictable legal framework for investors and expand economic cooperation between the two countries.
The third round of negotiations is being held from October 19 to 21 at the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in Islamabad, according to a press release issued by the Pakistani side.
The Canadian delegation is led by Canada’s high commissioner to Pakistan, while the Pakistani delegation is headed by the secretary of the SIFC. Officials from relevant ministries and departments of both countries are participating in the discussions.
Opening the talks, the SIFC secretary welcomed the Canadian delegation and said concluding the treaty would mark a significant milestone in bilateral relations. He said the agreement would provide investors from both countries with a predictable, transparent and stable legal framework, helping strengthen foreign direct investment.
Canada’s high commissioner thanked the Pakistani government for hosting the negotiations and praised its constructive approach. He reaffirmed Ottawa’s commitment to reaching an early and balanced agreement that serves the interests of both countries and their business communities.
Both sides expressed their readiness to address outstanding issues from previous rounds and make progress toward finalising the treaty text.
During a separate meeting with the SIFC secretary, the Canadian delegation highlighted investment opportunities in Pakistan’s renewable energy, mining, agriculture and information technology sectors.
The proposed treaty is intended to complement expanding economic ties by providing greater legal certainty for investors. However, the negotiations remain ongoing, and no final agreement has yet been announced.
The discussions are scheduled to continue through October 21.
