Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah received on Monday in Riyadh Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The foreign ministers affirmed the positive and growing momentum of bilateral relations spanning more than 50 years, based on shared interests in advancing and diversifying economic growth, enhancing regional and international security, and promoting global peace.
They highlighted the level of bilateral trade, noting that trade volume between the two countries exceeded SAR12 billion in 2024, and welcomed the establishment of the Saudi-Canadian Business Council and its role in strengthening economic cooperation.
They noted progress in ongoing negotiations on an agreement to promote and protect foreign investment between the two countries.
The two ministers welcomed the convening of the second Saudi-Canadian Educational Partnership Forum, held on March 30.
They discussed ways to enhance and develop relations across all fields including trade, investment, space, artificial intelligence, mining, tourism, education, and pharmaceuticals, and they agreed on the importance of deepening bilateral relations and strengthening the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.
The foreign ministers exchanged views on regional challenges, condemning Iran’s destabilizing behavior in the region, including its attacks on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, which threaten regional and international security.
They called on Iran to immediately cease its attacks and respect international law, international humanitarian law, and the principles of good neighborliness.
They stressed the need for Iran to comply with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 (2026) and to stop supporting, financing, and arming affiliated militias in Arab countries, which undermine regional and international peace and security.
Minister Anand expressed her country’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia and appreciation for the Kingdom’s assistance in facilitating the repatriation of Canadian citizens.
She also reaffirmed Canada’s readiness to work closely with the Kingdom to enhance regional stability and protect civilians amid the ongoing conflict affecting the Gulf and the Middle East.
Both ministers agreed on the importance of concerted international efforts to de-escalate tensions, enhance maritime and energy security, and protect critical infrastructure.
Minister Anand expressed her appreciation and thanks for the warm welcome and hospitality, reaffirming her country’s commitment to strengthening a forward-looking strategic partnership with the Kingdom.
