UAE and Canada Strengthen Bilateral Ties with Focus on Trade and Climate Change
During a meeting between Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE, and Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, in Abu Dhabi, the two countries discussed strengthening their bilateral relations. Both sides explored opportunities for cooperation in various fields, such as economic, trade, investment, and energy. In addition, discussions centered on enhancing collaboration in the environment and climate change, particularly in light of the UAE hosting the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) later this year.
Sheikh Abdullah expressed hope that Joly’s visit would further expand Emirati-Canadian relations, emphasizing the strong ties between the two countries. The ministers also engaged in talks about current developments in the Middle East and the importance of protecting civilians and scaling up humanitarian responses. They stressed the need for coordinated regional and international efforts to combat extremism, tension, and escalating violence in the region, prioritizing the safety and well-being of civilians.
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) hosted the first UAE-Canada Joint Committee meeting, co-chaired by Reem Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Mélanie Joly. This meeting further solidified the growing bilateral relations between the two countries, with a focus on fostering enhanced collaboration to achieve shared goals and interests.
Al Hashimy highlighted the importance of the Joint Committee meeting as a testament to the flourishing relations between the UAE and Canada, especially in the economic field. She underscored the commitment of both nations to promoting cooperation, mutual prosperity, and a lasting partnership that encompasses cultural, diplomatic, and people-to-people ties.
Joly commended the convening of the meeting and expressed enthusiasm for advancing bilateral relations at all levels. She emphasized the criticality of collaboration between Canada and the UAE on initiatives related to sustainable peace in the Middle East, climate change, trade ties, and more.
The Joint Committee meeting saw the attendance of senior officials from both the UAE and Canada, representing various ministries and entities. Discussions revolved around cooperation in defense and security, climate change, food security, trade and investment, innovation, and education. At the end of the meeting, the co-chairs signed a joint statement and agreed to hold the second round of the Joint Committee in Canada.
This news demonstrates the commitment of both the UAE and Canada to strengthening their bilateral ties, expanding cooperation in various sectors, and addressing regional challenges together. The discussions focused on vital areas such as trade, climate change, and the protection of civilians. With the signing of the joint statement, both countries have expressed their intent to continue working together and deepening their multifaceted cooperation.
