Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent journey to Saudi Arabia has sparked significant discussion, as it signifies a notable departure from the previous administration’s approach to the kingdom. In a quest to forge stronger trade and investment links, Carney engaged directly with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, a move that has raised eyebrows given the historical context of Canada’s strained relations with Saudi Arabia.
A New Era of Engagement
Carney’s visit to Jeddah marks the first by a Canadian Prime Minister in 26 years, breaking a long-standing diplomatic freeze that began following the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018. During his meeting with Crown Prince bin Salman, Carney announced the formation of the Canada-Saudi Arabia Co-ordination Council, aimed at enhancing collaboration in various sectors, including defence and trade.
In the words of Carney, “Engagement is not endorsement,” underscoring his belief that fostering relationships with nations, regardless of their human rights records, is essential for Canada’s economic interests. He articulated a vision for diversifying Canada’s trade partnerships beyond its primary reliance on the United States. “Lecturing countries from afar is an ineffective strategy,” he stated, emphasising the need for pragmatic diplomacy.
Strengthening Trade Ties
As part of this renewed engagement, Canada plans to re-establish the position of defence attaché at its embassy in Riyadh. Furthermore, Carney revealed intentions to sign a foreign investment protection and promotion agreement by the end of 2027. This treaty is designed to create a framework of legally binding rules that will enhance the security and predictability for investors from both nations, thereby encouraging bilateral investment.
The Prime Minister also mentioned that officials from Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund will participate in the upcoming Canada Investment Summit in Toronto. This summit is expected to attract Canadian pension funds to explore new opportunities in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant step towards rebuilding economic ties.
Criticism and Historical Context
Carney’s pivot towards Saudi Arabia has not gone unnoticed, with critics expressing discomfort regarding what they perceive as a “transactional” approach to foreign policy. Lloyd Axworthy, a former foreign affairs minister, voiced his concerns, stating, “He keeps wanting to say he’s erasing the Trudeau legacy,” and lamenting that this shift undermines long-standing Liberal values regarding human rights and international relations.
The backdrop to this diplomatic thaw is a fraught history that began when Canada openly condemned Saudi Arabia’s human rights abuses, leading to a significant diplomatic rift. Following the Khashoggi murder, Canada imposed sanctions on 17 Saudis implicated in the crime, a stance that has remained unchanged under Carney’s leadership.
Engaging with Controversial Partners
During his trip, Carney was also asked about discussions surrounding human rights with Saudi officials. While he refrained from disclosing the specifics of those conversations, he maintained that direct engagement is crucial for influencing foreign policy. Critics, however, are wary of this approach, questioning whether conversations about sensitive topics like women’s rights and dissenters will truly occur.
The Prime Minister’s comments regarding his dialogue with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan further illuminate his stance on engagement. Carney claimed a breakthrough in a Canadian consular case was achieved through direct communication, although this assertion is complicated by past interactions between Turkey and Canada that question the depth of their relationship.
Why it Matters
Carney’s visit to Saudi Arabia represents a significant shift in Canadian foreign policy, as the government seeks to balance economic interests with the ethical implications of engaging with controversial regimes. As Canada navigates its international relationships in an increasingly multipolar world, the outcomes of this engagement will be closely scrutinised. The implications of prioritising trade over human rights could reshape Canada’s global reputation and influence, making it crucial for the government to articulate a clear and coherent foreign policy moving forward.
