Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived in Doha on Saturday as part of a campaign to attract foreign investment and deepen Canada’s economic ties with its traditional partners.
Carney’s visit comes after his visit to China and follows the recent launch of a new federal budget aimed at positioning Canada as a stable, attractive destination for world capital.
At a news conference Saturday, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne said Canada is working to expand its economic ties as global trade patterns change.
Qatar is viewed by Ottawa as a strategic partner, with officials pointing to the country’s huge investment potential and growing influence on the world stage.
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“We need to reduce our reliance and increase our confidence to find a strategic way forward,” Champagne said.
“Connecting with the Middle East and China is necessary for Canada, just as our European partners have done,” said Champagne. “We buy more from the USA than anywhere else, but the trade situation right now is different.”
The conference highlighted Canada’s industrial strengths and trade advantages as key selling points to potential investors.
Champagne also said international engagement is important as Canada works to raise its profile among global investors.
“We are one of the G7 with the largest industries. We build cars, planes, ships, we have a lot of energy, and we are the only one that trades freely with the rest of the G7,” said Champagne. “The way the world is changing, it’s changing for the better, the supply chain is changing and we need to adapt.”
Prime Minister Carney is expected to meet with senior Qatari officials, including Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, and representatives of the Qatar Investment Authority.
His office says talks will focus on expanding trade access and building partnerships in artificial intelligence, infrastructure, energy and defense.
The visit comes amid political tensions in the region, although officials say the plan has not changed.
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