Doha, May 14 (QNA) - Canada has reaffirmed its support for the State of Qatar and the wider Gulf region amid escalating regional tensions, with HE Foreign Minister Anita Anand condemning "unjustified retaliatory attacks from Iran" against several countries in the region.
Speaking to the Qatar News Agency during a visit to Doha, HE Anand said Canada was committed to strengthening strategic ties with the State of Qatar and maintaining stability in the Gulf, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz.
Her visit marks the third trip to the region this year and comes at a time of heightened concern over maritime security and the risk of disruption to global energy supplies.
Anand said Ottawa and Doha had signed a new 10-year strategic partnership agreement covering trade, defense, cybersecurity, culture, education and tourism.
"That's the type of relationship we want to build with Qatar going forward, a strong relationship, a long-term relationship," she said.
The Canadian minister also praised Qatar's diplomatic role in regional mediation efforts, saying the two countries shared common positions on de-escalation, the protection of civilians and the need for a permanent ceasefire in conflict zones.
She said discussions with Qatari officials had strengthened cooperation on regional diplomacy and efforts to safeguard freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important shipping routes for oil and liquefied natural gas exports.
During the visit, Anand held talks with HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, which she described as "highly productive".
The agreement signed following the meeting is expected to expand bilateral cooperation in areas including defense, security, visa procedures and tourism.
Anand also thanked Qatar for its cooperation on security planning related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada will co-host with the United States and Mexico.
She said Canadian and Qatari teams were working closely together on preparations for major sporting events, drawing on Qatar's experience hosting the 2022 tournament.
Canada has expressed concern over any potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, warning that disruption to shipping lanes could affect global trade and energy markets.
Anand said Canada would continue supporting Qatar's diplomatic efforts to ensure the uninterrupted flow of trade, including exports of liquefied natural gas, fertilizers and helium.
She is expected to return to the Gulf region next month to attend a meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council. (QNA)