The Ambassador of Canada to Qatar, Isabelle Marie Catherine Martin, recently praised the visit of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Canada, highlighting the importance of bilateral collaboration between the two countries. She emphasized the valuable partnership that Qatar has been for Canada, particularly during challenging times, and expressed a desire to deepen economic and trade relations. Martin identified promising opportunities in sectors such as clean technologies, agriculture, health, and information technology.
In addition, the Ambassador commended Qatar for its support in various fields, including Qatar Airways’ assistance in repatriating Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic and evacuating Canadians from Afghanistan in 2021. She noted that the timing of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani’s visit to Canada is significant, as 2024 marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. This visit also signifies Canada’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Qatar at the highest levels.
Furthermore, Martin highlighted key agreements between Canada and Qatar, such as the Memorandum of Understanding for annual bilateral political consultations and the Defense Cooperation Arrangement signed in 2021. These agreements aim to enhance bilateral cooperation in various areas, including defense, peace and humanitarian operations, and personnel training. High-level visits, such as the one by Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, provide an invaluable opportunity to establish personal rapport and trust, facilitating the identification of shared priorities and opportunities for collaboration.
In terms of trade exchange, the Ambassador noted that the level of trade between Canada and Qatar has been steadily increasing. In 2023, Qatar was Canada’s key trade partner with a bilateral merchandise trade total of about $427 million. Canada exported goods worth approximately $227.5 million to Qatar, including iron ores, aircraft trainers, electrical machinery, and pharmaceutical products. Commercial services trade between the two countries in 2022 totalled $51 million.
Overall, the visit of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani to Canada represents a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between Canada and Qatar. It underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthening their partnership in various fields, including trade, defense, and political consultations. The Ambassador’s positive remarks reflect the shared values and priorities of both nations, as well as the potential for further collaboration and mutual benefit in the future.
