Canada reinforced its Canada-Qatar strategic partnership during Prime Minister Mark Carney’s first official visit to Doha. The trip aimed to expand trade, investment, and defence cooperation while fostering stronger bilateral relations. Moreover, the visit highlighted Canada’s commitment to building resilient economic ties and diversifying international partnerships.
During the visit, Prime Minister Carney met with Qatar’s leadership to discuss boosting trade, commerce, investment, and security cooperation. The leaders announced Qatar’s commitment to strategic investments in Canadian projects, including clean energy, health, artificial intelligence, and defence. These projects will accelerate development, create high-paying jobs, and strengthen long-term prosperity for Canadian workers.
Furthermore, the Canada-Qatar strategic partnership will enhance collaboration in advanced technologies, aerospace, quantum computing, agriculture, and agri-food industries. Both countries agreed to conclude negotiations on a new Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA) this year. This agreement will facilitate Canadian businesses expanding in Qatar and attract Qatari investment to Canada.
In addition, the countries will deepen cooperation through a Joint Canada-Qatar Commission on Economic, Commercial, and Technical Cooperation. They will also expand investment opportunities in information technology, AI, and defence technologies. Negotiations for a double-taxation agreement will begin soon, easing business operations and investments for both nations.
The visit included discussions to strengthen defence ties, with Canada establishing a Defence Attaché office in Doha to increase bilateral engagement. Both countries will exchange best practices on security and defence, including preparations for global events like the FIFA World Cup 26. Moreover, the visit highlighted growing people-to-people and cultural connections, which will further enhance bilateral relations.
Additionally, Prime Minister Carney met Qatari business leaders and officials from the Qatari Investment Authority to explore more opportunities for collaboration. Two-way trade between Canada and Qatar already exceeds $325 million, and Qatar’s investments in Canada are growing by nearly 20% annually.
In conclusion, the Canada-Qatar strategic partnership strengthens economic, technological, and defence collaboration while promoting mutual growth. This visit marked a historic step in building long-term cooperation and shared prosperity between the two nations.
