Canada aims to strengthen its relationship with Saudi Arabia through direct diplomacy, Prime Minister Mark Carney stated during his visit to the kingdom—the first by a Canadian premier in 25 years. The meeting in Jeddah with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focused on expanding cooperation in energy, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence.
Carney arrived from the NATO summit in Turkey, emphasizing a strategic shift from the previous Liberal government’s approach. Under Justin Trudeau, Canada had publicly criticized Saudi Arabia’s human rights record, particularly concerning activists like Raif Badawi, whose family relocated to Canada.
The current administration frames the reconciliation as part of a broader effort to diversify Canada’s trade partnerships, reducing overreliance on the United States. Carney stated that engagement with Saudi Arabia does not equate to endorsement of all its policies, but rather a necessary strategy for pragmatic international relations.
He highlighted that “lecturing countries from afar is an ineffective strategy,” underscoring the value of direct dialogue. The relationship had deteriorated in 2018 after Canada demanded the release of detained human rights advocates, prompting Saudi Arabia to expel the Canadian ambassador and cut economic ties.
Carney indicated that plans to finalize a trade agreement next year will aim to facilitate Canadian business expansion in Saudi markets. He also addressed ongoing U.S.-Canada trade discussions, including the stalled North American Free Trade Agreement, stating he would provide updates when appropriate.
