Doha: Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi stated that the Third Gulf-Canada Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue represents an important platform to broaden the horizons of cooperation, not only in addressing current challenges, but also in building sustainable strategic partnerships across various fields of common interest, reflecting the growing stature of this relationship and its future importance.
According to Qatar News Agency, Albudaiwi, speaking at the Third Gulf-Canada Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue, noted that the meeting is being held amid complex regional and international developments and circumstances across all levels. This follows the Iranian aggression against the GCC states since February 28, 2026, which continues to disrupt navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, causing consequences for the global economy.
He further remarked that the meeting, occurring under these circumstances, is particularly significant for exchanging views, coordinating positions, and strengthening joint cooperation between the GCC and Canada. This cooperation aims to support security, stability, and prosperity.
The GCC Secretary General also renewed his welcome of the United Nations (UN) Security Council Resolution 2817, emphasizing the importance of its implementation to achieve its objectives of protecting international security and peace, and deterring practices that could threaten regional stability.
Albudaiwi expressed appreciation for Canada's stance in denouncing the Iranian attacks against the GCC states and its support for efforts aimed at enhancing security and stability in line with the principles of the UN Charter.
He highlighted that the strategic dialogue between the GCC states and Canada marks a shift in relations, with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a solid framework for dialogue. The Joint Action Plan for 2025-2029 outlines priorities and mechanisms to enhance cooperation in political and security fields, trade, energy, education, health, and other areas.
Albudaiwi addressed economic relations between the GCC states and Canada, noting remarkable growth in recent years. Trade exchange between the two sides reached approximately USD 7.7 billion in 2025, and foreign direct investment inflows to the GCC states rose to more than USD 2 billion in 2024, reflecting strong economic links and potential for enhanced cooperation.
He emphasized the importance of building on the progress achieved in economic relations, expanding mutual trade and investment, and strengthening cooperation in energy, innovation, advanced technologies, food security, and supply chains to support sustainable development and economic growth for both peoples.