Jasem Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, and Canadian Minister Ahmed Hussen discussed enhancing cooperation between the GCC and Canada in areas like international development, investment, education, and renewable energy.
Riyadh, January 7, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic meeting today in Riyadh, Jasem Albudaiwi, the Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), welcomed Ahmed Hussen, the Minister of International Development of Canada, to discuss the strengthening of ties between the GCC and Canada. The two officials engaged in a constructive dialogue, exploring a wide array of opportunities to enhance cooperation across various sectors that are pivotal to the shared interests of both parties.
During their discussion, Albudaiwi and Hussen highlighted the potential for expanding collaboration in key areas such as international development, investment, education, and renewable energy. Both recognized the importance of these sectors in fostering long-term sustainable growth and enhancing the socio-economic ties between the GCC states and Canada. The exchange also focused on the role of innovation and technology in driving progress, particularly in renewable energy, a sector of growing importance in both regions as they work toward addressing climate change and diversifying their economies.
In addition to these areas of cooperation, the two officials reviewed a range of critical regional and international issues. They emphasized the importance of fostering dialogue and strengthening strategic partnerships in addressing challenges to regional security and global stability. Their conversation underscored the shared commitment of the GCC and Canada to maintaining peace and prosperity, as well as their mutual support for initiatives that promote international cooperation and sustainable development.
The meeting also placed significant emphasis on the role of sustainable development in ensuring the stability and long-term progress of both regions. Albudaiwi and Hussen reiterated their commitment to advancing collaborative efforts in this area, recognizing that such initiatives are essential in achieving the broader goals of global security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
The diplomatic engagement between the GCC and Canada signals a continued deepening of relations, based on mutual respect and a shared vision for fostering peace, development, and progress at both the regional and international levels. Through strengthened cooperation in these key areas, both sides aim to contribute to the achievement of common goals that benefit their respective countries and the broader international community.