Prime Minister Carney concluded an investment-protection agreement with the United Arab Emirates during a visit to Abu Dhabi marked by unusual restrictions on media access. The trip unfolded against a backdrop of mounting concerns regarding the UAE’s alleged role in fueling the escalating ethnic violence within Sudan.
The investment pact was announced following a private meeting with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, with discussions also initiated for a comprehensive trade deal. This signals a deepening economic partnership between the two nations, aiming for long-term collaboration and mutual benefit.
Carney’s schedule included a meeting with the UAE’s Industry Minister, Sultan al-Jaber, and a tour of the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The mosque, a breathtaking architectural marvel boasting 82 domes and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, showcased a stunning fusion of global artistry and materials.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to engage with key figures from the UAE’s sovereign wealth funds – Mubadala, MGX, ADQ, and ADIC – seeking investment opportunities and exploring future collaborations. This precedes a dinner hosted by the UAE’s national security advisor, further solidifying high-level diplomatic ties.
This visit builds upon a recent agreement signed just last month, focused on bolstering cooperation in the rapidly evolving fields of artificial intelligence and data centres. Experts believe the UAE is quickly establishing itself as a global leader in AI, offering Canada both investment and innovative advancements.
Janice Stein, a leading expert in global affairs, emphasized the strategic importance of Carney’s visit. She noted the UAE’s proactive embrace of AI, powered by readily available energy resources, and the warm reception afforded to Carney due to his distinguished background in finance and international diplomacy.
The UAE is strategically positioning itself as a central hub in the global AI economy, leveraging its energy advantages to power massive data centres. This mirrors Canada’s own ambitions to utilize resources like Alberta’s oilsands for similar technological advancements.
Furthermore, the UAE has secured access to cutting-edge American chip technology, despite reservations from some U.S. officials regarding the Emirates’ relationship with China. This access underscores the UAE’s growing influence and technological prowess on the world stage.
During his tour of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Carney was visibly moved by the building’s global influences and the unifying vision behind its creation. He described the mosque as “inspiring” and a “testament to the Emirati people” for sharing such a remarkable landmark with the world.
Remarkably, Carney’s public remarks were limited to these observations at the mosque, with his visit notably lacking a formal press conference. His Emirati hosts maintained tight control over media access, barring journalists from observing the crucial bilateral meetings.
This restricted access coincides with increasing scrutiny of the UAE’s alleged support for a militia involved in the brutal Sudanese civil war. Accusations of ethnic violence perpetrated by this militia have sparked international condemnation, though the UAE vehemently denies providing arms.
The conflict in Sudan, erupting in April 2023 between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has tragically echoed the horrors of the Darfur genocide. Disturbing videos circulating on social media allegedly depict RSF members engaging in mass killings accompanied by hateful rhetoric.
Despite a UN report citing “credible” allegations of UAE support for the RSF, the UAE maintains its innocence. A statement following Carney’s meeting with Sheikh Mohammed acknowledged the situation in Palestine but remained silent on the crisis in Sudan.
Experts suggest the UAE’s involvement in the conflict is complex, acknowledging its support for the RSF while also noting its role in brokering a ceasefire agreement previously proposed by the Trump administration. This highlights a nuanced and potentially contradictory approach to the situation.
Carney is now en route to South Africa to participate in the G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg, carrying with him the weight of these complex diplomatic engagements and the urgent need for stability in a volatile region.
