June 4, 2026
The Board of the Canada Arab Congress on MENA Relations (CACMR) held a productive and important meeting with the Honourable Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, to discuss Canada’s ongoing engagement in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and the importance of strengthening diplomatic dialogue, regional cooperation, and long-term peacebuilding efforts.
The meeting focused on a wide range of pressing regional issues, including the ongoing humanitarian and political challenges across the Middle East, regional security concerns, economic cooperation, youth engagement, intercultural dialogue, and the importance of supporting peaceful and sustainable political solutions throughout the MENA region.
During the discussions, members of the CACMR Board provided updates on the organization’s recent engagements and initiatives with stakeholders across the Middle East and North Africa, including ongoing dialogue with ambassadors, policymakers, business leaders, and community organizations. The Board also highlighted the importance of strengthening Canada’s partnerships in the region through diplomacy, economic collaboration, cultural understanding, and people-to-people engagement.
CACMR representatives emphasized the organization’s continued commitment to promoting constructive dialogue and fostering stronger Canada–MENA relations while advocating for peace, stability, and inclusive cooperation across the region.
The Board further discussed the importance of addressing the humanitarian impact of ongoing conflicts, supporting regional de-escalation efforts, and encouraging collaborative international initiatives that contribute to long-term stability and prosperity.
Following the meeting, Hon. Rob Oliphant publicly highlighted the importance of the discussions, stating:
“Canada is actively engaged with international partners to facilitate rapid de-escalation of the crisis in the Middle East and to build a sustainable political solution. Glad to speak with representatives from the Canada Arab Congress about how Canada will continue to support peace and stability in the face of ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.”
CACMR expressed its appreciation to Hon. Rob Oliphant for his leadership, engagement, and continued openness to dialogue on matters affecting the Arab Canadian community and the broader international community.
The Canada Arab Congress on MENA Relations remains committed to building bridges between Canada and the MENA region through meaningful partnerships, dialogue, and initiatives that advance diplomacy, economic cooperation, and regional understanding.
