Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently visited Saudi Arabia, sparking discussions about the complex interplay between diplomacy and human rights. Despite criticism of the kingdom’s human rights record, Carney argued that outright condemnation from a distance is not an effective approach to fostering change.
Canada’s Diplomatic Strategy
During his first trip to Saudi Arabia in 26 years, Carney engaged directly with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The prime minister emphasized that diplomatic engagement is necessary, even when disagreements about human rights persist. “Lecturing countries from afar is an ineffective strategy,” he stated in Jeddah, conveying his belief that building relationships can have more impact than merely voicing disapproval from a distance.
Carney is keen to diversify Canada’s economic relationships beyond its significant reliance on the United States, particularly in light of trade tensions and tariffs introduced under the Trump administration. Strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia aligns with his objective of expanding economic opportunities and fostering investment. The visit was marked by the signing of 13 commercial agreements, amounting to over CAD 1 billion, indicating a potential shift in economic collaboration between the two nations.
Human Rights Concerns in Context
The issue of human rights in Saudi Arabia is particularly sensitive, especially following the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, which drew international outcry and criticism against the kingdom. A U.S. intelligence assessment implicated Prince Mohammed in the incident, a connection Saudi authorities have denied. This dark chapter has led to increased scrutiny of foreign leaders who engage with the Saudi government, prompting questions about the effectiveness of silence versus speaking out.
Carney differentiated his administration’s approach from that of his predecessor, Justin Trudeau, who notably condemned Saudi Arabia’s human rights violations in the past. That criticism triggered a rift in relations, leading to the expulsion of Canada’s ambassador and a pause in trade agreements. Under Carney, there is a clear pivot toward practical engagement, focusing on the realities of international diplomacy rather than solely on moral imperatives.
An Emphasis on Constructive Engagement
During his visit, Carney reiterated his commitment to human rights, referencing discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that related to consular cases. He stated that having these conversations in person yielded more substantial results than if they had taken place remotely. This reflects Carney’s belief that dialogue, even with regimes under scrutiny, can open avenues for addressing human rights cases more effectively.
Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand accompanied Carney during his visit and echoed his sentiments, as she also raised concerns about human rights during her diplomatic meetings. This strategy of direct engagement is aligned with Saudi Arabia’s efforts to attract foreign investment and diversify its economy beyond oil, as articulated by Saudi Investment Minister Fahad Al-Saif who labeled Canada a “trusted long-term partner.”
As Prime Minister Carney returns to Canada, experts like University of Toronto’s Nelson Wiseman point out that pragmatic diplomacy does not negate the importance of human rights. Instead, it means recognizing the complexities of global relations as leaders aim to navigate authoritarian landscapes realistically.