During his visit to Abu Dhabi, Prime Minister Mark Carney signed an investment-protection agreement with the United Arab Emirates, amidst concerns of the country’s involvement in ethnic violence in Sudan. The agreement was announced after a meeting with U.A.E. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, where discussions also began for a comprehensive trade deal.
In addition to meeting with Industry Minister Sultan Ahmed al-Jaber, Carney visited a grand mosque in Abu Dhabi and engaged in talks with local sovereign wealth funds and investment firms like Mubadala, MGX, ADQ, and ADIC. The visit follows a recent agreement between the two nations to enhance collaboration in artificial intelligence and data centers.
Janice Stein, the founding director of the Munk School of Global Affairs at the University of Toronto, highlighted the U.A.E.’s advancements in AI and its potential to support Canada in innovation and investment. She emphasized the importance of Carney’s visit, citing the U.A.E.’s growing role in AI technology.
Former Quebec premier Jean Charest, co-chair of the Canada-U.A.E. Business Council, expressed optimism about the prospects of a trade agreement between the two nations, emphasizing the significance of Carney’s leadership in fostering such relationships. Charest noted the existing U.A.E. investments in major Canadian infrastructure and the country’s aspiration to become a financial hub in the Gulf region.
Carney’s tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque showcased the architectural marvel and global collaboration reflected in the building’s construction materials. Despite limited media access during his visit, Carney’s engagements in Abu Dhabi have raised questions about the U.A.E.’s alleged support for a militia involved in the Sudan civil war.
The U.A.E. has denied accusations of arming the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militia, despite UN reports suggesting otherwise. Carney’s meeting with Sheikh Mohamed did not touch on the Sudan issue but highlighted discussions on Palestine. Stein acknowledged the U.A.E.’s involvement in the conflict, noting recent peace efforts by Abu Dhabi in contrast to the situation on the other side of the Sudan civil war.
Following his engagements in Abu Dhabi, Carney is set to address business leaders before heading to South Africa for the G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg.