Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates — Prime Minister Mark Carney met with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), marking the first in-person bilateral meeting between Canadian and Emirati leadership since 1983. The discussion focused on expanding economic cooperation, securing long-term investment, and addressing regional security issues.
New Canada UAE Investment Agreement Signed
During the visit, the leaders signed the Canada–UAE Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (FIPA). The agreement creates clearer, more predictable rules for two-way investment and is intended to strengthen long-term collaboration between Canadian and Emirati industries.
According to the government, once the agreement comes into force it will:
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Provide stable conditions for foreign investors
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Support major industrial partnerships
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Attract capital to Canadian nation-building projects
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Create high-paying jobs in Canada
Here in Abu Dhabi, we just launched negotiations toward a free trade deal with the UAE.
It will cut tariffs, eliminate red tape, and expand market access across this $700 billion economy for Canadian businesses looking to grow abroad. pic.twitter.com/pQrtdgp2NW
— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) November 20, 2025
Launch of CEPA Negotiations to Expand Trade
Prime Minister Carney and President Sheikh Mohamed also announced the start of negotiations toward a Canada–UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
A CEPA would:
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Reduce or eliminate tariffs
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Remove trade barriers
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Expand market access for Canadian exporters
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Facilitate Emirati investment into Canadian infrastructure, ports, data centres, LNG projects, mining, and critical minerals
The government notes that the agreement aligns with Canada’s plan to double non-U.S. exports over the next decade as global supply chains shift.
Regional Security and Humanitarian Assistance Discussed
The two leaders also discussed regional security in the Middle East and Africa, including ongoing humanitarian needs in Palestine.
Prime Minister Carney expressed appreciation to the UAE for its efforts in facilitating humanitarian access and highlighted Canada’s commitment, stating that Canada has provided more than $400 million in international assistance to Palestine.
Both leaders agreed on the urgency of restoring stability in the region and committed to maintaining close communication.
A Renewed Canada–UAE Relationship
The meeting builds on decades of diplomatic ties and substantial economic engagement. With over 150 Canadian companies operating in the UAE and tens of thousands of Canadians living and working there, the UAE is one of Canada’s most significant partners in the Middle East.
The new agreements reflect Canada’s broader strategy to diversify trade, attract foreign investment, and strengthen economic resilience in a rapidly changing global landscape.
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