MANAMA, Wednesday, June 10, 2026 (WNP): Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi on Wednesday described the third joint ministerial meeting of the GCC-Canada Strategic Dialogue as an important platform for expanding cooperation and building sustainable strategic partnerships across a wide range of sectors.
Speaking at the opening of the third joint ministerial meeting of the strategic dialogue between the GCC and Canada in Manama, Al-Budaiwi said the forum reflects the growing importance of relations between the two sides and their shared commitment to addressing current challenges while advancing long-term cooperation.
The meeting was chaired by Bahrain’s Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, chairman of the current session of the GCC Ministerial Council, and attended by the foreign ministers of GCC member states and Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand.
At the outset of his remarks, the GCC Secretary General expressed appreciation to Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the current chairman of the GCC Supreme Council, for the Kingdom’s continued support for joint Gulf action and for hosting the meeting.
Al-Budaiwi said the gathering was taking place amid complex regional and international developments, highlighting what he described as continuing Iranian aggression against GCC countries since February 28, 2026, and its impact on regional stability, maritime navigation and the global economy.
He stressed that the current circumstances make GCC-Canada consultations particularly important for exchanging views, coordinating positions and enhancing cooperation aimed at promoting security, stability and prosperity.
The Secretary General welcomed United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 and emphasized the importance of its implementation to protect international peace and security and deter actions that threaten regional stability or undermine international law.
He also expressed appreciation for Canada’s position in condemning attacks against GCC countries and its support for efforts aimed at strengthening regional security in accordance with the principles of the United Nations Charter.
Al-Budaiwi noted that the strategic dialogue represents a significant advancement in GCC-Canada relations and said the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the GCC Secretariat and the Government of Canada has established a strong institutional framework for cooperation.
He pointed to the Joint Action Plan for 2025-2029 as a roadmap for expanding collaboration in political and security affairs, trade and investment, energy, education, health and other key sectors.
Highlighting the growing economic relationship, Al-Budaiwi said trade between the GCC and Canada reached approximately US$7.7 billion in 2025, while foreign direct investment flows into GCC countries exceeded US$2 billion in 2024, reflecting the strength of bilateral economic ties and the significant potential for further growth.
He stressed the importance of expanding cooperation in traditional and renewable energy, innovation, advanced technologies, food security and supply chain resilience to support sustainable development and economic prosperity.
The GCC Secretary General also welcomed Canada’s hosting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico, extending his best wishes for the success of the tournament.
Concluding his remarks, Al-Budaiwi reaffirmed the GCC’s commitment to deepening its strategic partnership with Canada and enhancing cooperation across sectors that contribute to regional and global stability, economic growth and sustainable development.
“The GCC-Canada Strategic Dialogue is not only a mechanism for addressing present challenges but also a platform for building enduring partnerships that serve the interests of our peoples and future generations,” he said.
