Canada increases Gulf diplomacy to push for peace and reopening of Strait of Hormuz
“Diplomacy is the art of the possible,” Canada's Foreign Minister Anita Anand said. That has been at the heart of talks with regional partners aimed at easing tensions in the Middle East, opposing Iranian aggression and restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. She spoke to The National in Dubai, with her visit to the UAE intended to reinforce Canada's opposition to Iranian attacks…
Foreign Minister Anita Anand of Canada emphasized the importance of diplomacy in her visit to the UAE, aiming to promote peace and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking with The National in Dubai, she highlighted Canada's stance against Iranian aggression and support for restoring freedom of navigation in the strategic waterway, which is crucial for global energy supplies and trade.
Anand met with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the UAE, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, to discuss bilateral ties and regional stability. The pair underscored the consistent elevation of relations between the two nations, with Canada increasing diplomatic engagement in response to heightened tensions in the Middle East.
Canada and the UAE have deepened diplomatic ties, with Prime Minister Mark Carney visiting the UAE in November 2025, marking the first such visit by a Canadian leader in over four decades. Carney's government has also sought to strengthen investment links with the Gulf region while reducing reliance on the US market. Anand praised the UAE and other Gulf states for maintaining normalcy amidst Iranian aggression, commending their strong response to attacks while preserving daily life.
Iranian aggression has escalated, with Iran launching ballistic missiles and drones at its Gulf neighbors, targeting civilian infrastructure such as energy sites and airports. The United States and Iran signed a June agreement to pave the way for a final peace settlement, but attacks continue, particularly on shipping, with the US and Tehran exchanging threats.
Saudi Arabia has also faced repeated attacks from Iran-backed groups, prompting Canadian concern over security in the region. Anand expressed deep worry about the attacks on Saudi Arabia, particularly Riyadh airport, and conveyed Canada's support to the kingdom's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prince Faisal bin Farhan.
Canada has imposed sanctions on Iran over alleged human rights abuses, repression, and activities threatening regional security. The latest sanctions, announced in September, target five individuals and entities for involvement in digital surveillance and other rights breaches. Anand presented Canada as a nation deeply committed to the region, respecting international law and human rights.
She also highlighted humanitarian assistance efforts, with Canada providing over $4 billion in aid to Gaza through the UAE since 2023 and another $40 million to Lebanon, primarily targeting actions by Iran-backed Hezbollah. In Syria, Canada is gradually relaxing some sanctions imposed during the Assad regime, aiming for improved relations with Damascus.
Anand stated her intention to invite Syria's Foreign Minister to Canada and work towards a meeting to further regional stability.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
