RIYADH — Saudi Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan held wide ranging talks with Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand at the ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh on Monday. During the meeting, the ministers agreed on the importance of deepening bilateral relations and enhancing the comprehensive partnership between the two countries. They discussed ways to strengthen and develop relations in all fields, particularly priority areas, including trade, investment, space, artificial intelligence, mining, tourism, education, and pharmaceuticals. The ministers agreed on the necessity of concerted international efforts to reduce tensions, enhance maritime and energy security, and protect critical infrastructure. Prince Faisal and Anita Anand exchanged views on the latest regional developments. They condemned Iran’s destabilizing behavior in the region, including its attacks on Saudi Arabia and other Gulf 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. The ministers stressed the need for Iran to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817 and to stop supporting, funding, and arming its affiliated militias in the Arab countries, saying that this undermines the foundations of regional and international peace and security. The Canadian minister expressed her country’s solidarity with Saudi Arabia and its appreciation for the assistance provided by the Kingdom in facilitating the return of Canadian citizens. She reaffirmed Canada’s readiness to cooperate closely with the Kingdom to promote regional stability and protect civilians amidst the ongoing conflict affecting the Gulf and the Middle East. During the meeting, the ministers affirmed the positive and growing momentum in enhancing bilateral relations, which have spanned more than 50 years and are based on shared interests in achieving economic growth and diversification, enhancing regional and international security, and establishing the foundations of global peace. The ministers noted the level of bilateral trade, with the volume of trade exchange between the two countries exceeding SR12 billion in 2024. They welcomed the formation of the Saudi-Canadian Business Council and its efforts to strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries. They also noted the progress made in the ongoing negotiations regarding the agreement on the promotion and protection of foreign investment between the two countries. The ministers also welcomed the convening of the second Educational Partnership Forum between the two countries, held on Monday, March 30. Anita Anand expressed her appreciation and gratitude for the warm welcome and generous hospitality, emphasizing her country’s commitment to strengthening a vital and forward-looking partnership with the Kingdom.
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