Canada strengthens Gulf ties amid Iran war

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand and Defence Minister David McGuinty are undertaking a diplomatic mission to the Persian Gulf, visiting Oman, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The primary goals are to strengthen defence, security, and economic ties, court investment, and express solidarity with Gulf countries amidst the ongoing United States-Iran conflict and regional instability. A critical focus is on reviving cargo shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked, significantly impacting global oil, liquefied natural gas, and fertilizer supplies. Canada is also exploring joining a coalition to secure the strait if a ceasefire is achieved. The visit underscores Canada's emphasis on the region for both economic partnerships and shared objectives for global stability, with discussions also touching upon Russia's invasion of Ukraine.