Manama: Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), emphasized that the third GCC-Canada Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue serves as a crucial platform to enhance cooperation. This initiative not only addresses current challenges but also aims to build sustainable strategic partnerships in areas of mutual interest, highlighting the growing importance of relations between the GCC and Canada.
According to Emirates News Agency, Albudaiwi's comments were made during the meeting held in Manama, chaired by Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bahrain and President of the current session of the Ministerial Council. The meeting saw the participation of GCC foreign ministers and Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada.
Albudaiwi began by expressing gratitude to King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain for his support and the facilities provided to ensure the success of GCC activities. He also acknowledged the ongoing support from GCC leaders for joint Gulf action. He remarked on the complex regional and international developments influencing the meeting, particularly mentioning the Iranian aggression against GCC states since February 2026, which has disrupted navigation in the Strait of Hormuz with significant repercussions for the global economy.
The Secretary-General highlighted the importance of the meeting in light of these challenges, as it provides an opportunity to exchange views, coordinate positions, and strengthen cooperation between the GCC and Canada. This effort supports security, stability, and prosperity.
Albudaiwi also welcomed United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817, emphasizing its importance in safeguarding international peace and security, and deterring actions that threaten regional stability or undermine international law. He appreciated Canada's condemnation of the attacks on GCC states and its support for efforts to enhance security and stability in line with the United Nations Charter.
He further stated that the strategic dialogue between the GCC and Canada marks a significant advancement in relations. The memorandum of understanding between the GCC General Secretariat and the Government of Canada has established a strong institutional framework for dialogue, while the Joint Action Plan for 2025-2029 outlines priorities and cooperation mechanisms in political and security affairs, trade and investment, energy, education, health, and other essential sectors.
Albudaiwi noted the growth of economic relations between the GCC and Canada, with bilateral trade reaching approximately US$7.7 billion in 2025. He added that foreign direct investment inflows to GCC countries exceeded US$2 billion in 2024, showcasing the strength of existing economic ties and the potential for further trade and investment cooperation.
He emphasized the need to build on the progress achieved in economic relations by expanding mutual trade and investment. This includes strengthening cooperation in conventional and renewable energy, innovation, advanced technologies, food security, and supply chains, all of which support sustainable development, economic growth, and prosperity.
In conclusion, Albudaiwi welcomed Canada's hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico, expressing his best wishes for the tournament's success.
Source: Emirates News Agency