Abu Dhabi Crown Prince and Canadian PM Mark Carney sign deals to boost ties

Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, held high-level discussions in Canada with Prime Minister Mark Carney as several key agreements were finalised to strengthen strategic cooperation in defence, diplomacy and renewable energy.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of accords designed to enhance collaboration in mining, logistics, energy and investment through sovereign wealth funds, the Abu Dhabi Media Office reported on Wednesday.

Investment framework and trade deals

Emirati and Canadian companies have joined forces to drive C$21.1 billion (US$15 billion) in trade under a major investment framework between the two nations.

During a meeting at Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Sheikh Khaled and Mr Carney explored ways to deepen long-standing relations. The talks, held as part of the Crown Prince’s official visit to Canada, focused on boosting ties in key sectors including artificial intelligence, aviation, food security, infrastructure and logistics.

Sheikh Khaled underscored the UAE’s commitment to forging long-term partnerships with Canada that support the development plans of both allies. The two sides reviewed avenues to advance cooperation between their business communities and encourage joint projects and investment.

Regional and global dialogue

Sheikh Khaled and Mr Carney also exchanged views on a range of international and regional issues, stressing the importance of dialogue and diplomatic solutions to achieve peace and security regionally and globally.

Sheikh Khaled signed the Distinguished Visitors Book at Parliament Hill, expressing pride in UAE-Canada relations and hope that the visit would open new opportunities. On Tuesday, he attended a dinner hosted by Mr Carney as part of the official visit.

Mr Carney welcomed Sheikh Khaled and expressed hope that the visit would further strengthen friendship and cooperation between the UAE and Canada. Sheikh Khaled thanked Mr Carney for the warm welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

Recent diplomatic momentum

Sheikh Khaled’s visit comes only weeks after President Sheikh Mohamed spoke by phone with Mr Carney to explore ways to deepen partnerships, with a focus on the economy, investment and advanced technology.

In July, the UAE finalised a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (Cepa) with Canada aimed at reducing trade barriers for goods, services and investment. That deal followed a $50 billion investment commitment made by the UAE government during Mr Carney’s visit to the country in November.

The Cepa grants Canadian companies improved access to the UAE, which remains the largest market for Canada’s exports to the Middle East, and could help attract capital into energy, mining, artificial intelligence and ports.