Qatar and Canada Upgrade Ties with Foreign Ministers-Level Strategic Dialogue

Qatar and Canada have agreed to elevate their bilateral consultations to a Foreign Ministers-level Strategic Dialogue, marking a significant step in strengthening relations between the two countries. The decision was announced in a joint statement issued during the official visit of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to Doha on January 18, 2026.
The visit, the first by a sitting Canadian prime minister to Qatar, underscored the growing partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to economic cooperation, regional and global stability, and a strong multilateral system. Discussions between the leadership focused on expanding cooperation across key areas, particularly trade, investment, security, and emerging technologies.
Both sides highlighted the strong foundation of their relationship, built over more than five decades of diplomatic ties, and noted recent progress through high-level engagements and agreements. During the visit, several memoranda of understanding were signed to establish structured frameworks for long-term cooperation and to pave the way toward a broader strategic partnership.
Economic collaboration featured prominently, with Qatar reaffirming its intention to make strategic investments in major Canadian infrastructure and development projects. Canada, in turn, committed to sending a delegation of investors, including major pension funds, to explore joint investment opportunities. The two countries also agreed to establish a Joint Economic Commission to enhance cooperation in sectors such as mining, agriculture, telecommunications, technology, transportation, and science.
In the areas of security and defence, Qatar and Canada agreed to deepen cooperation, including plans to strengthen defence and intelligence coordination. A letter of intent on security cooperation was signed in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by Canada, drawing on Qatar’s experience from hosting the 2022 tournament.
The two sides also committed to concluding negotiations on a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement by mid-2026, initiating talks on a Double Taxation Agreement, and expanding bilateral air connectivity. Cooperation in artificial intelligence and information technology was identified as a priority, aligned with Qatar’s Vision 2030 and Canada’s diversification goals.
Both countries emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and people-to-people ties, noting that upcoming cultural initiatives will further strengthen mutual understanding and long-term cooperation. The visit concluded with an exchange of invitations for future high-level visits, reflecting confidence in the continued deepening of Qatar–Canada relations.