Anita Anand in Pakistan, first Canadian foreign minister to visit in 20 years

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, who is of Indian origin, began her maiden official visit to Pakistan on Monday, marking the first visit by a Canadian foreign minister to the country in nearly two decades.

Soon after arriving in Islamabad, Anand held talks with Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. The two discussed the full spectrum of bilateral ties, including trade, security and regional developments.

Rattled Pakistan raises Indus Waters Treaty issue

During his meeting with Anand, Dar raised the Indus Waters Treaty issue. "We seek the support of our friendly countries, including Canada, towards India's immediate restoration of the IWT and upholding international law and treaty obligations," Dar said.

The visit comes at a time when Pakistan has been rattled by India's decision to place the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 civilians were killed. India has blamed Pakistan-sponsored terrorists for the attack and has linked its decision on the treaty to Islamabad's continued support for cross-border terrorism.

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Canada announces $47 million assistance

During a joint press interaction, Anand acknowledged Pakistan's efforts to support dialogue aimed at easing tensions between the United States and Iran in the Middle East.

"I'd like to acknowledge Pakistan's efforts in supporting dialogue aimed at achieving a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the regional tensions in the Middle East, including involving Iran," Anand said.

She also announced more than $47 million in development and security assistance for Pakistan, including over $2.2 million for new security initiatives through Interpol, the United Nations and other international organisations.

According to Anand, the initiatives will focus on border management, counterterrorism, financial crime investigations and training for Pakistani law enforcement agencies.

Calling Pakistan an "important partner" in Canada's trade diversification strategy, Anand said Ottawa was looking to expand cooperation with Islamabad.

PM Shehbaz Sharif meets Anand

During her visit, Anand also met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. According to Pakistan's Prime Minister's Office (PMO), the meeting was "warm and cordial."

The PMO quoted Anand as saying that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney had directed her to expand Canada's engagement with Pakistan.

Pakistan and Canada established diplomatic relations in 1947. Anand's visit is the first by a Canadian foreign minister to Pakistan in nearly 20 years.