In a significant departure from previous administrations, Prime Minister Mark Carney has embarked on a diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia, aiming to strengthen trade and investment relations. This visit marks the first by a Canadian prime minister in 26 years and signals a pragmatic approach to foreign policy, one that prioritises economic ties over past confrontations on human rights issues.
A Historic Visit
Carney’s meeting with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah culminated in the establishment of the Canada-Saudi Arabia Co-ordination Council, designed to enhance collaboration in various sectors, including defence and trade. The Prime Minister articulated his goal of diversifying Canada’s economic partnerships beyond its traditional reliance on the United States. “Engagement is not endorsement,” he stated firmly. “Talking to foreign leaders does not equate to agreement with their actions.”
The Prime Minister’s comments reflect a broader strategy aimed at re-engaging with nations that have previously been sidelined due to their human rights records. Carney’s administration appears keen to foster a working relationship, even with countries like Saudi Arabia, which has faced international criticism for its treatment of dissenters and journalists.
Re-establishing Ties
During this trip, Carney confirmed the reinstatement of a defence attaché position in Canada’s Riyadh embassy and indicated plans to sign a foreign investment protection agreement by 2027. This treaty aims to provide a clearer legal framework for investors from both nations, enhancing confidence in cross-border investments.
Further, the Prime Minister revealed that representatives from Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund will participate in his upcoming Canada Investment Summit in Toronto this September. Additionally, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne is set to lead a delegation to Saudi Arabia to explore new investment avenues.
Criticism and Concerns
However, Carney’s approach has not been without its detractors. Lloyd Axworthy, a former foreign affairs minister, expressed concern over what he described as a “transactional” foreign policy. He remarked, “Carney seems intent on erasing a legacy that many Liberals hold dear.” The legacy in question refers to previous administrations’ stance on human rights, which often involved vocal criticism of countries like Saudi Arabia.
Since the diplomatic fallout following the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, relations between Ottawa and Riyadh have been strained. The incident, which led to Canada imposing sanctions on 17 Saudi nationals, remains a significant point of contention. Critics worry that Carney’s efforts to rebuild ties could undermine Canada’s commitment to human rights advocacy.
Engaging with Controversial Leaders
Carney defended his strategy by citing the effectiveness of dialogue. He noted his recent discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, claiming that such conversations can yield tangible results, particularly in sensitive diplomatic matters. Yet, this assertion raises questions about the consistency of Canada’s foreign policy, especially given the problematic human rights record of Turkey.
When pressed about whether he addressed human rights issues during his talks with Saudi leaders, Carney maintained that the specifics of such discussions were confidential. The lack of clarity on whether human rights were on the agenda has drawn criticism from political figures and observers alike, who are concerned that critical issues may be overlooked in favour of economic gain.
Why it Matters
Carney’s visit to Saudi Arabia signals a pivotal moment in Canadian foreign policy, as the government navigates the delicate balance between economic pragmatism and ethical considerations. The shift towards engagement with controversial regimes could redefine Canada’s international standing and influence. While fostering trade relations may bring economic benefits, it also raises fundamental questions about the country’s commitment to human rights and democratic values. How the government reconciles these competing priorities will be crucial in shaping Canada’s role on the global stage in the years to come.