Anita Anand concludes Saudi Arabia visit focused on trade, regional stability

Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand has concluded a two-day visit to Saudi Arabia, where discussions centred on expanding bilateral trade and Canada’s potential role in safeguarding key global shipping routes in the event of a ceasefire in the Middle East.

According to a statement from Anand’s office, talks included the security of the Strait of Hormuz and broader efforts to support regional stability following any cessation of hostilities. Anand said Canada would be prepared to play an active role in limiting global economic disruptions tied to conflict in the region.

During the visit, Anand met with four senior Saudi ministers, including Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud. The meetings also addressed diplomatic engagement and economic co-operation between the two countries.

Anand said she received an invitation to attend an upcoming meeting of foreign ministers from the Gulf Cooperation Council, signalling a possible expansion of Canada’s engagement with regional partners.

Canada–Saudi relations have been strained since 2018, when then–foreign affairs minister Chrystia Freeland publicly called for the release of detained human rights activists in Saudi Arabia. The comments prompted a diplomatic dispute and a cooling of bilateral ties.

The current visit is being positioned by officials as part of ongoing efforts to re-establish diplomatic and economic relations after several years of tension.