ISLAMABAD: Canada aims to strengthen trade linkages and bilateral relations with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Canadian High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan said during a meeting with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi at KP House in Islamabad to discuss a comprehensive economic framework.

The meeting marked a shift from aid-based cooperation to sustainable trade, with both sides agreeing to enhance collaboration in agriculture, minerals, renewable energy and youth exchange programmes.

The Canadian envoy identified the promotion of agricultural imports and exports as the top priority for immediate cooperation.

He said Canada also seeks to expand collaboration in mining, mineral exploration, drilling and surveying by leveraging its position as a host of major global mining conferences and prominent mining stock markets.

The two sides also discussed joint ventures in nuclear, solar and wind energy, as well as transmission and energy storage technologies. The high commissioner pledged to bring the senior Canadian trade commissioner to meet local business representatives.

Chief Minister Afridi welcomed the high commissioner’s interest in cooperation across various sectors of the province. He said the provincial government is pursuing a policy of transitioning from aid to trade, adding that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa offers significant investment opportunities.

Referring to the agriculture sector, he said the province produces high-quality products, including premium potatoes and tobacco. He added that the completion of the Chashma Right Bank Lift Canal project would irrigate 700,000 acres of barren land and trigger an agricultural revolution across the southern districts.

On mineral resources, the chief minister said the provincial government is focusing on value-added products rather than raw materials to increase exports, generate employment and promote industrial growth.

Discussing the energy sector, he described Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the country’s leader in renewable energy potential, citing major hydropower projects, including Mohmand, Gabral-Kalam and Dasu.

Published in Dawn, July 23rd, 2026