Canadian High Commissioner Perry Calderwood calls on Punjab Chief Minister

Lahore : Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Perry Calderwood met Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, here today. Matters of mutual interest, Pak-Canada relations and cooperation in different sectors were discussed in the meeting.

Talking to Canadian High Commissioner, the Chief Minister said that there are deep-rooted friendly relations between Pakistan and Canada and a large number of Pakistanis are living in different cities of that country. He said that Pakistanis living in Canada are ambassadors of Pakistan and playing an important role in strengthening of Pakistan’s economy through sending foreign exchange. He said that there is a need for solid measures for promotion of trade and economic relations between Pakistan and Canada and implementation of projects in education, health and electricity especially hydro energy.

He said that there should be maximum exchange of trade delegations between Pakistan and Canada.

Shahbaz Sharif said that there is a need for promotion of trade activities between Canada and Pakistan especially Punjab besides cooperation in different sectors and both the countries should make efforts in this regard.

Canadian High Commissioner said that Punjab is very important province and a partner of Canada. He said that Punjab and Canada should promote trade and economic relations for moving forward. He said that Canada wants to promote cooperation with Punjab government in different sectors.

Honorary Consul of Canada in Lahore Syed Yawar Ali, Chairman Punjab Investment Board, Chief Executive Officer Punjab Investment Board, Secretary Schools Education and concerned officials were present in the meeting.

Meanwhile; High Commissioner of Canada His Excellency Perry John Calderwood met Provincial Minister for Human Rights & Minorities Affairs Khalil Tahir Sandhu here at Lahore.  The minister said that Pakistan has played exemplary role in war against terrorism, Minorities living in Punjab are quite safe, their children are getting scholarships and financial assistance at various level.

At this occasion, Canadian High Commissioner Perry John Calderwood praised the sacrifices of Pakistan in war against terrorism. He said that Canada always respect the stance and sacrifices of Pakistan in war against terrorism. He said that it is necessary to provide fundamental rights to all citizens without any discrimination of cast, colour and creed.

He expressed satisfaction over human rights situation in Punjab. High Commissioner insisted to promote interfaith harmony at district level, by engaging all the stakeholders. The situation of human rights in Punjab and opportunities for employment to minorities were also discussed in the meeting.

Secretary High Commission Canada Ms. Jane Alkhoure and Javed William head of Faces Pakistan were also present on the occasion.