- Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney discussed the latest regional and international developments and signed several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) on July 9, 2026, in Jeddah.
- Mark Carney's visit is significant as it marks the first official visit by a sitting Canadian prime minister to Saudi Arabia in 26 years.
- Saudi Arabia and Canada restored their diplomatic relations on May 24, 2023, following a five-year rift between the two nations.
- During the meeting, both leaders condemned Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz on July 7, 2026.
- The two sides agreed to begin negotiations on a double taxation avoidance agreement and welcomed the progress of ongoing negotiations on an investment protection and promotion agreement, aiming to finalize it by early 2027.
- Trade between Saudi Arabia and Canada has exceeded $20 billion since 2020, highlighting the growing economic ties between the two nations.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney held significant talks in Jeddah, marking the first official visit by a Canadian prime minister in 26 years. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including energy, critical minerals, and advanced technologies.1234
During the meeting, the leaders signed several memorandums of understanding (MoUs) aimed at deepening ties, including agreements on energy cooperation and artificial intelligence investment. The establishment of a Saudi-Canadian Coordination Council was also announced, which will serve as a platform for future collaboration.
Carney emphasized the importance of building a new partnership with Saudi Arabia, stating, 'identify new ways we can partner — and create major opportunities for our energy industries and workers.' The two nations condemned recent Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting their commitment to regional security.6
Trade between Saudi Arabia and Canada has exceeded $20 billion since 2020, with ongoing negotiations for a double taxation avoidance agreement and an investment protection agreement expected to be finalized by early 2027. Carney also expressed support for Saudi Arabia's bid to host the G20 summit in 2030 and confirmed Canada's participation in the 2030 World Expo in Riyadh, showcasing Canadian innovation and contributions to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.578
The visit underscores a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral relations following the restoration of diplomatic ties in May 2023, after a five-year rift.
“During their talks, the leaders signed several memorandums of understanding in energy and AI, establishing a Canada-Saudi Arabia Coordination Council to enhance cooperation. They also condemned recent Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing their commitment to regional security.”
Arab News PK
