His remarks were made during the meeting held in Manama, chaired by Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and President of the current session of the Ministerial Council, with the participation of GCC foreign ministers and Anita Anand, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Focus on regional developments and security

At the beginning of his remarks, Albudaiwi expressed appreciation to Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, President of the current session of the Supreme Council, for Bahrain’s support in facilitating GCC activities and for the continued backing provided by GCC leaders to joint Gulf action.

He noted that the meeting was taking place amid complex regional and international developments, referring to what he described as Iranian aggression against GCC states since 28 February 2026. He said the situation had disrupted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and created significant repercussions for the global economy.

Albudaiwi stressed that the meeting provided an important opportunity to exchange views, coordinate positions, and strengthen cooperation between the GCC and Canada in support of security, stability, and prosperity.

Support for international peace and stability

The GCC Secretary-General welcomed United Nations Security Council Resolution 2817 and underscored the importance of implementing it to safeguard international peace and security while deterring actions that threaten regional stability and international law.

He also expressed appreciation for Canada’s condemnation of attacks against GCC states and its support for efforts aimed at enhancing regional security and stability in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter.

Albudaiwi said the strategic dialogue marks a significant advancement in GCC-Canada relations. He highlighted that the memorandum of understanding signed between the GCC General Secretariat and the Government of Canada established a strong institutional framework for cooperation, while the Joint Action Plan for 2025–2029 outlines priorities in political and security affairs, trade and investment, energy, education, health, and other key sectors.

Expanding trade and investment cooperation

Albudaiwi highlighted the steady growth of economic ties between the GCC and Canada, noting that bilateral trade reached approximately US$7.7 billion in 2025. He added that foreign direct investment inflows to GCC countries exceeded US$2 billion in 2024, reflecting the strength of economic relations and the potential for deeper cooperation.

He emphasized the importance of expanding trade and investment opportunities while enhancing collaboration in conventional and renewable energy, innovation, advanced technologies, food security, and supply chains to support sustainable development, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

Concluding his remarks, Albudaiwi welcomed Canada’s role as a host of the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico, wishing the tournament every success.