In a notable departure from previous Canadian foreign policy, Prime Minister Mark Carney has embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to Saudi Arabia, aiming to bolster trade and investment ties. This visit marks the first by a Canadian prime minister in 26 years and indicates a strategic pivot away from his predecessor’s more critical stance towards the kingdom, particularly regarding its human rights record and the high-profile murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018.
A New Era of Engagement
During his visit to Jeddah, Carney met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, where they established the Canada-Saudi Arabia Co-ordination Council. This initiative is designed to enhance collaboration across various sectors, including defence and trade. Carney articulated a vision for Canada that reduces its economic dependence on the United States, emphasising the need for new investment avenues.
“Engagement is not endorsement,” Carney stated, reiterating his belief that forming partnerships with foreign nations does not necessitate agreement on all issues. He highlighted the futility of distant lecturing on human rights, suggesting that constructive dialogue tends to yield better results.
Strengthening Economic Ties
As part of this renewed engagement, Canada plans to reinstate the position of a defence attaché at its embassy in Riyadh—a move that underscores the importance of military cooperation. Furthermore, Ottawa anticipates finalising a foreign investment protection agreement with Saudi Arabia by the end of 2027, which aims to provide legal assurances for investors from both countries.
In a bid to attract financial support, Carney announced that representatives from Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund will participate in the upcoming Canada Investment Summit in Toronto this September. Additionally, Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne is set to lead a delegation to Saudi Arabia to explore new investment opportunities.
Criticism from Within
While Carney’s diplomatic overtures aim to strengthen Canada’s economic position, they have not gone unnoticed by critics. Former Foreign Affairs Minister Lloyd Axworthy expressed discomfort with what he describes as Carney’s “transactional” approach to foreign policy. Axworthy noted that this strategy appears to dismiss a long-standing Liberal commitment to human rights and ethical diplomacy, a sentiment echoed by many who feel that Carney is attempting to erase the legacy of his predecessor, Justin Trudeau.
The diplomatic rift between Canada and Saudi Arabia originated in 2018, following Canada’s public call for the release of imprisoned political activists. This led to a tit-for-tat expulsion of ambassadors and a freeze on new trade and investment. The controversy surrounding Khashoggi’s murder further complicated relations, with Canada joining the United States in imposing sanctions on Saudi officials implicated in the incident.
The Human Rights Dilemma
Human rights concerns remain a significant issue in discussions about Saudi Arabia. Carney has acknowledged the importance of these topics but has refrained from disclosing whether they were raised during his meetings. Critics, including Axworthy, have questioned the effectiveness of engaging with leaders known for their human rights abuses, urging Carney to clarify his stance on issues such as women’s rights and the treatment of dissenters.
The Prime Minister has pointed to his recent discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan as evidence of the benefits of engagement, despite historical tensions between Canada and Turkey. However, some have noted discrepancies in his claims about direct communication with Erdogan, raising questions about the accuracy of his narrative.
Why it Matters
The implications of Carney’s visit to Saudi Arabia extend beyond bilateral trade and investment. It signals a potential shift in Canada’s foreign policy approach—one that prioritises economic relationships over human rights advocacy. This change could redefine Canada’s role on the global stage, as it navigates the delicate balance between fostering economic growth and upholding its democratic values. As the Prime Minister continues to outline his vision for Canada’s international relations, the response from both critics and supporters will be pivotal in shaping the future of the nation’s diplomatic engagements.
