[29/04/2026 01:28]

OTTAWA – SABA
Yemen’s Ambassador to Canada, the Dean of the Arab Diplomatic Corps, Jamal al-Sallal, held talks with Canada’s Minister of Industry, the Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec, Mélanie Joly, on enhancing economic, trade and investment partnerships and exploring opportunities for joint cooperation.

During the meeting, which also included ambassadors of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, Ambassador al-Sallal stressed that Yemen views Canada not merely as a traditional trading partner, but as an advanced model of institutional stability.

He noted that the rule of law, institutional independence and clear regulatory frameworks are key factors in attracting long-term investment, adding that these elements open the door to building sustainable cooperation amid an increasingly volatile global environment.

He further highlighted that partnership with Canada could add an important strategic dimension, particularly in light of the opportunities provided by the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), which enables access to North American markets through similar trade arrangements.

In a related context, Ambassador al-Sallal emphasized that despite current challenges, Yemen represents a promising long-term strategic opportunity that requires a realistic approach based on risk management and direct engagement rather than avoidance.

He pointed out that risks in Yemen can be managed through effective regional and international partnerships, supported by key countries such as Saudi Arabia, and through instruments including investment financing, sovereign wealth funds, and multilateral cooperation frameworks.

The Ambassador also underscored Yemen’s significant potential, citing its strategic location linking East and West via the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, its proximity to the Horn of Africa and its access to the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and Indian Ocean.

He noted that Yemen boasts over 2,500 kilometers of coastline, numerous islands, abundant natural resources, rich biodiversity, and a young, educated population representing approximately 60 percent of its citizens.

Ambassador al-Sallal welcomed investors and companies from Canada and GCC countries, calling on them to contribute to reconstruction efforts.

He outlined investment opportunities across sectors including oil, gas, and minerals; renewable energy such as solar, wind, and marine energy; as well as tourism, modern agriculture, technology, artificial intelligence, and other promising fields.

The meeting also addressed geopolitical challenges stemming from ongoing regional conflicts, including tensions in the Red Sea and their impact on global trade flows and investor confidence, particularly amid the ongoing reconfiguration of global supply chains.

At the conclusion of the meeting, participants emphasized that the success of any future partnership depends on complementary roles: GCC countries bring capital, stability, and infrastructure; Canada offers technology and expertise; while Yemen represents a promising strategic opportunity for the future.

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