Bahrain and Canada Affirm Strong Ties, Vow Deeper Cooperation

HRH Prince Salman with the Canadian minister
Photo via News

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, met with Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand on June 10, 2026. The high-level meeting, which took place as part of the Third GCC-Canada Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue, focused on strengthening bilateral relations between the two nations. HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister noted the enduring strength of the relationship between Bahrain and Canada, stating it is underpinned by a shared commitment to advancing co-operation across various sectors to support both nations’ aspirations. During the discussion, he also conveyed his greetings to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, expressing his wishes for Canada’s continued growth and development.

Strategic Dialogue Focus

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa expressed profound hope for the success of the meetings, anticipating that their outcomes would significantly contribute to strengthening cooperation between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Canada. Prince Salman showed the critical significance of the Third GCC-Canada Joint Ministerial Meeting for Strategic Dialogue. He noted the meeting's vital role in enhancing collaboration and coordination across various fields, advancing shared objectives, and supporting collective efforts to promote regional security, stability, and development. Discussions at the meeting included a full review of regional and international developments, alongside other issues of mutual interest to both parties. The importance of fostering dialogue to address global challenges was a key theme throughout the discussions. Prime Minister’s Court Minister Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa also attended the meeting, signifying the importance of the discussions.

Shared Security Concerns

Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand affirmed Canada's unwavering support for Bahrain and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states in confronting what she described as hostile Iranian aggression. Ms. Anand also stressed the critical importance of reopening the Strait of Hormuz. She emphasized that safeguarding freedom of maritime navigation through the strait is not only key for regional stability but also vital for global trade and economic prosperity. Her remarks showed Canada's commitment to maritime security in the region.

Mutual Greetings and Gratitude

Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand conveyed the warm greetings of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Ms. Anand expressed her sincere gratitude for HRH Prince Salman’s steadfast commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across various fields and for his invaluable support of cooperation between Gulf Cooperation Council member states and Canada. In return, His Royal Highness Prince Salman conveyed his own greetings to Prime Minister Carney, reciprocating the goodwill between the two nations' leadership.

Future Opportunities

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, stressed the importance of deepening co-operation to create tangible opportunities that benefit the citizens of both nations. The meeting reviewed specific opportunities to advance further co-operation between Canada and Bahrain, particularly in the economic and commercial fields. Discussions explored avenues for increased trade, investment, and joint ventures that could stimulate economic growth in both countries. His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister conveyed his greetings to Prime Minister Carney and expressed his wishes for Canada’s continued growth and development, according to a statement released after the meeting. Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand also participated actively in discussions aimed at fostering closer ties across various sectors, including education, technology, and cultural exchange, further solidifying the strong relationship between Bahrain and Canada.