Thu Sep 19 07:28:02 UTC 2024: ## Canada and Qatar Celebrate 50 Years of Partnership with Focus on Development and Global Issues
**Ottawa, ON** – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau welcomed Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar to Canada for a two-day visit marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The visit focused on strengthening collaboration in various areas, including artificial intelligence, clean energy, and international development.
A key highlight of the visit was the signing of a memorandum of understanding to strengthen Canada-Qatar cooperation on social and economic progress in developing countries. This agreement includes the co-funding of development projects in the education sector through a framework signed between Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and Qatar’s Education Above All Foundation (EAA). As part of this partnership, UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited will receive $40 million from GAC and $40 million USD from the EAA Foundation to support marginalized and vulnerable communities.
The two countries also pledged to work together on global issues, including the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the situation in Afghanistan, and efforts towards a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine. Qatar will collaborate with Canada in providing treatment and psychological support to Gazans evacuated to Qatar as part of the Emir’s initiative to treat 1,500 Palestinians from the Gaza Strip.
“As we mark 50 years of Canada’s strong relationship with Qatar, we continue to work together for the benefit and prosperity of the people of our countries,” stated Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly. “Together, we will continue advancing our cooperation in trade, investment, climate change, human rights and the empowerment of women and girls, as well as strengthening regional and global security.”
Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development Mary Ng emphasized the importance of the strong economic ties between the two nations, highlighting the benefits for workers, businesses, and industries in both countries.
Minister of International Development Ahmed Hussen underscored the importance of collaboration in addressing global challenges, stating “In today’s interconnected world, no one country can address our shared challenges alone. Collaboration is key to driving positive change, and by working together, Canada and Qatar can empower communities, improve education, and promote socio-economic growth around the world.”
The Emir’s visit was accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Qatar. Canada and Qatar have enjoyed uninterrupted diplomatic relations since 1974, with Qatar playing a significant role in promoting peace and stability in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. In 2023, Qatar was Canada’s 9th most important partner in the MENA region with bilateral merchandise trade totaling approximately $427 million.
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