Saudi Arabia and Canada affirm the importance of enhancing cooperation in international forums to support stability and economic growth
Jeddah, July 9 (KUNA) -- Saudi Arabia and Canada affirmed today the importance of enhancing cooperation and joint coordination in international forums, multilateral organizations, and financial and economic institutions to support stability and economic growth. This was stated in a joint statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) at the conclusion of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The statement noted that, at the gracious invitation of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, and in the context of strengthening bilateral relations between Saudi Arabia and Canada, the Canadian Prime Minister paid an official visit to the Kingdom, where he was received by the Saudi Crown Prince at the Salaam Palace in Jeddah.
The statement added that the two sides held an official round of talks, during which they reviewed the historic relations between the two friendly countries, which have spanned more than five decades, deepening ties and consolidating bilateral relations with positive developments across various fields.
It clarified that the two leaders emphasized their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, setting clear priorities to enhance joint cooperation and ensure its sustainability in numerous areas, including trade, investment, innovation, multilateral forums, and regional security, within the context of the significant momentum witnessed by relations in recent times.
Both sides stressed the importance of fully leveraging the potential offered by bilateral economic relations, welcoming the growing cooperation between Saudi and Canadian companies.
The two sides agreed to launch negotiations on a (Double Taxation Avoidance) agreement, welcoming the progress of ongoing negotiations regarding a (Protection and Promotion of Investment) agreement, with a view to completing them by early 2027.
They welcomed the holding of the (Saudi-Canadian Investment Forum), during which several commercial and investment agreements were announced between relevant authorities in both countries across various sectors.
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing cooperation and coordination in the defense field, contributing to regional stability and international security. They welcomed strengthening cooperation in defense, cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and combating transnational organized crime.
They welcomed the signing of a memorandum of understanding on (Investment in Artificial Intelligence and Skills Development), aimed at enhancing cooperation in key areas of mutual interest.
The two sides discussed future opportunities to expand cooperation in public health, biotechnology, digital health, pharmaceutical industries, medical technologies, as well as in the exchange of expertise, training programs, and research.
Regarding regional security, the two sides strongly condemned Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, affirming that these unacceptable assaults constitute an attack on the security and safety of international navigation and on global energy supply security, representing a serious violation of international law and norms.
They stressed that such actions would escalate regional tensions, undermine confidence-building efforts, and threaten ongoing diplomatic negotiations aimed at enhancing security and stability in the region.
In this context, the two sides praised the efforts undertaken by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the State of Qatar to reach an agreement. They also emphasized the importance of restoring safe and unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law and returning it to its normal status.
On the Palestinian issue, the two sides stressed the importance of delivering humanitarian aid safely, urgently, and without obstacles, protecting civilians, and making efforts to create the necessary conditions for achieving lasting peace.
The two sides reiterated their support for the two-state solution and emphasized the importance of preserving the Palestinian people’s right to establish their independent state.
On the Yemeni issue, the two sides affirmed their full support for efforts aimed at reaching a political solution to the Yemeni crisis in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions, stressing the importance of maintaining the security and stability of the Red Sea region.
On the Sudanese issue, the two sides stressed the importance of intensifying efforts to end the crisis, renewing their support for Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. (End) F.N. / M.A.A.
