Aziz seeks FTA with Canada: N-accord with India to be reviewed: Harper
By Our Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD, March 14: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said on Tuesday Pakistan desired to conclude a free trade agreement with Canada and the objective would be pursued in future discussions between the two countries.
He was talking to reporters after meeting his Canadian counterpart Stephen Harper at the Prime Minister’s House.
Prime Minister Aziz said that he had discussed with Mr Harper a wide range of issues, including Pakistan’s cooperation with international community in war on terrorism, business, trade and economic relations between the two countries and regional issues, including the Pakistan-India talks.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said the quantum of trade between the two countries had increased to $600 million but there was potential for expansion.
He praised Canada for expanding its cooperation in human resource development, health and education.
The prime minister said he had briefed the Canadian prime minister on developments in the region, including Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan, India, Iran and China.
He said he had also explained Pakistan’s position on the Kashmir dispute.
Mr Harper said his country would review what he termed controversial nuclear cooperation agreement with India that had been made by previous government, adding that he had not discussed any nuclear energy deal with Pakistan.
He said Canada supported signing of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty by countries involved in building reactors and it was against nuclear proliferation.
Mr Harper said that Canadian troops in Afghanistan would continue to do their role. Their mission, he said, was to uphold the cause of international security and peace.
He said Pakistan and Canada would enhance their trade and economic cooperation. He appreciated Pakistan’s role in fighting terrorism. He said Canada supported the continuation of dialogue between Pakistan and India.
