The third quarter of 2026 has been an important period for Canada–MENA relations, with increased high-level engagement between Canada and key Gulf countries. Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to Jeddah resulted in approximately $1 billion in announced investment commitments involving Saudi Arabia and Canada, along with numerous agreements and MOUs signed between Canadian and Saudi organizations. Among the CABC members participating in these agreements were Niagara College and Bombardier, demonstrating the tangible opportunities emerging for Canadian businesses and institutions. The visit also highlighted opportunities across priority sectors including infrastructure, energy, artificial intelligence, education and life sciences.
Canada–Qatar relations also continued to strengthen, with Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand meeting with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The quarter also saw the visit of Kuwait’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to Ottawa, further demonstrating Canada’s focus on strengthening relationships across the Gulf. These engagements provide CABC with opportunities to deepen relationships with governments, embassies and business communities and to facilitate greater two-way trade and investment.
The Canada Investment Summit (CIS), held September 14–15, was another significant development, bringing together international investors, Canadian businesses and government leaders. The Summit announced approximately $500 billion in investment commitments and planned projects in Canada, including numerous major infrastructure and other strategic projects. The Government of Canada’s broader objective is to attract $1 trillion in investment into Canada, meaning that the additional $500 billion represents a longer-term target rather than investment already committed at the Summit. This scale of investment presents significant opportunities for CABC members, particularly in infrastructure, energy, technology, education, life sciences and related professional services, including opportunities to connect MENA investors with Canadian projects and businesses.
Overall, the third quarter has demonstrated strong momentum in Canada–MENA economic and investment relations. As we move into the final quarter, CABC will continue to focus on translating high-level government and diplomatic engagement into tangible opportunities for our members, including business introductions, investment partnerships, targeted programming and stronger relationships across Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, UAE and the broader Arab World.
Warm regards,
Cathy Séguin
President/Executive Director
