In a notable shift in diplomatic approach, Prime Minister Mark Carney recently defended his inaugural visit to Saudi Arabia, asserting the importance of fostering stronger trade and investment relationships with the kingdom. This visit marks the first by a Canadian prime minister in 26 years and comes amid a backdrop of strained ties due to human rights issues and the high-profile murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018.
A New Era of Engagement
Carney’s discussions in Jeddah with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman focused on establishing the Canada-Saudi Arabia Co-ordination Council, aimed at bolstering collaboration in various sectors, including defence and trade. During his meetings, Carney emphasised the need for Canada to diversify its economic partnerships, particularly in light of its heavy reliance on the United States as its primary trading partner.
“Engagement is not endorsement,” Carney articulated to reporters, clarifying that while Canada seeks to strengthen ties with foreign nations, it does not imply an agreement with their domestic policies. He further remarked on the ineffectiveness of “lecturing countries from afar,” asserting that meaningful dialogue can lead to tangible results.
In practical terms, Canada is re-establishing the position of defence attaché within its Riyadh embassy. Furthermore, the government aims to sign a foreign investment protection agreement with Saudi Arabia by the end of 2027. This bilateral treaty is designed to provide a legal framework that ensures a level of security for investors from both nations.
Trade Opportunities on the Horizon
The Prime Minister’s visit also included announcements about attracting investment from Saudi Arabia’s Pension Investment Fund, which will participate in the upcoming Canada Investment Summit in Toronto this September. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne is expected to lead a delegation of Canadian pension fund representatives to explore investment avenues in the kingdom in the near future.
However, Carney’s “transactional” approach to foreign policy has drawn criticism from figures like Lloyd Axworthy, former foreign affairs minister under Jean Chrétien. Axworthy expressed discomfort with what he perceives as a departure from long-standing Liberal values, stating, “He keeps wanting to say he’s erasing the Trudeau legacy… it’s not just Justin Trudeau’s legacy; he’s erasing a legacy that goes back a lot of years for a lot of Liberals.”
The Shadow of Khashoggi
The diplomatic relationship between Canada and Saudi Arabia has been fraught with tension since 2018, when a public call for the release of imprisoned political activists by then-Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland prompted Saudi Arabia to expel the Canadian ambassador. Relations soured further following Khashoggi’s brutal murder in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, which has left a lasting impact on international perceptions of Riyadh.
Freedom House, a prominent human rights organisation, underscores Saudi Arabia’s reputation for transnational repression, casting a shadow over Carney’s outreach efforts. The Canadian government has maintained sanctions against 17 Saudi individuals linked to Khashoggi’s death, reflecting ongoing concerns about human rights violations in the kingdom.
Questions of Accountability
While Carney professes a commitment to human rights, he has been reticent to disclose whether these topics were raised in his discussions with Saudi leadership. Critics, including Axworthy, have questioned the lack of a clear foreign policy direction from the Prime Minister, who has yet to present a comprehensive strategy for Canada’s international engagement.
Carney did reference a recent diplomatic achievement involving Turkey, claiming that open dialogue led to positive outcomes. However, discrepancies have emerged regarding past interactions between Canada and Turkey, casting doubt on the Prime Minister’s assertions.
Why it Matters
Carney’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies a pivotal moment in Canada’s foreign policy, reflecting a willingness to engage with nations despite human rights concerns. As the government pivots towards a more transactional approach, the implications for Canada’s international reputation and moral standing are profound. The path forward raises critical questions about the balance between economic interests and ethical considerations in foreign relations—a balancing act that will undoubtedly shape Canada’s global identity in the years to come.