Canadian PM Carney seals investment agreement with UAE amid concerns over Sudan conflict

The trip was marred by limited media access and rising concerns over the UAE's alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a militia involved in ongoing ethnic violence in Sudan—which the UAE government has denied.

Carney held bilateral talks with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to strengthen the Canada-UAE economic partnership and expand opportunities for businesses and workers.

This was the first in-person bilateral meeting between Canadian and Emirati leaders since 1983.

The countries signed the Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, which establishes clearer rules and protections for investors and creates a more predictable environment for two-way investment.

We are ready to capitalise on the massive economic opportunities between Canada and the UAE," Carney wrote on X.

"With a new investment protection agreement and the launch of free trade negotiations, we’ll create more opportunities for workers, businesses, and investors."

The leaders also launched negotiations on a Canada-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) that seeks to reduce tariffs, eliminate trade barriers, and expand market access for Canadian exporters.

This trade deal aligns with Canada’s strategy to double non-US exports over the next decade, facilitating growth in sectors such as engineering, aerospace, agri-food, and seafood.

Additionally, it will encourage significant UAE investments in projects like Canadian ports, mines, LNG facilities, data centers, and critical mineral extraction.

The two leaders discussed pressing regional security issues, particularly the situation in the Middle East and Africa.

They highlighted the importance of continued humanitarian assistance to Palestine, with Carney acknowledging over $400 million in Canadian aid to date.