KARACHI: The Canadian government would continue its programme of accepting immigrants from across the world for economic growth and prosperity of the nation, said Canadian High Commissioner Perry John on Thursday.
Speaking at an event organised by the English Speaking Union of Pakistan, Calderwood said immigrants played a vital role in Canada’s economic progress, stability and prosperity.
“About 20 percent of Canadians are born outside of the Canada but they are playing active role in the uplift of the country as vehicle of growth,” Calderwood added.
“About 300,000 immigrants make Canada their home every year. They are also severing the country and hold high government positions,” Calderwood said, adding, “No political party in Canada is against the immigration.”
Calling Canada home to marginalised people, the high commissioner said until 1960 the immigration was mainly European centric but now people from every country are being attracted by the Canada’s beauty of diversity and multiculturalism.
He said women are equally playing a constructive role with their male counterparts in all segment of the society. In Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet there are 15 women and 15 men as a prime example of egalitarian approach, he informed.
He said that 90 percent of children in Canada are enrolled in public schools. He said the Canadian model of prosperity can be adopted by any country.
About bilateral trade of Pakistan and Canada, he said that during last year, 2016, the trade between Pakistan and Canada was recorded at $1.5 billion and volume mostly consists of textile products.
“The trade growth is good sign of improvement of economic relations of both countries,” he added.
To a question about granting special access to Pakistan in the Canadian market similar to Bangladesh, he assured to convey the suggestions to the relevant department for consideration.
English Speaking Union of Pakistan President Aziz Memon highlighted the role of Canada in eradication of polio from Pakistan.
