Board Leadership Participates in Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy Conference

Ottawa, Ontario | June 9, 2026 

Board Chair and President Abdullatif Al-Shaikh and Vice Chair, Operations Dr. Mohammed Al-Anbaki participated in the Canadian Global Affairs Institute’s conference, “Implementing Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy,” held at the Westin Hotel in Ottawa.

The conference brought together Canadian parliamentarians, senior government officials, defence and security industry leaders, scholars, innovators and members of civil society for an important national discussion on the implementation of Canada’s Defence Industrial Strategy and the future of the country’s defence procurement and acquisition system.

A central focus of the conference was the role of the Defence Investment Agency in implementing the Defence Industrial Strategy and strengthening Canada’s broader defence acquisition system. Speakers and participants represented organizations and institutions including the Council of Canadian Innovators, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, the Defence Investment Agency, the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries, Public Services and Procurement Canada, and the Canadian Armed Forces, including the Royal Canadian Navy and Royal Canadian Air Force.

A particular highlight of the conference was the opportunity for Al-Shaikh and Dr. Al-Anbaki to meet and reconnect with the Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, a close friend and valued ally of the Council. The warm reunion provided an opportunity to renew a longstanding relationship while exchanging perspectives on important Canadian and international security developments.

Their conversation included the evolving situation in the Middle East, the ongoing war and heightened regional tensions, as well as the wider implications for regional stability and international security. The discussion underscored the importance of continued diplomatic engagement, maintaining strong channels of communication with partners throughout the region, and supporting efforts toward de-escalation, stability, lasting peace and security.

The exchange with Minister McGuinty also reflected the Council’s longstanding commitment to strengthening relationships between Canada and the Middle East and to fostering constructive dialogue with Canadian government leaders on geopolitical, security and economic issues of mutual importance.

Al-Shaikh and Dr. Al-Anbaki also met with the Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement). The meeting provided an opportunity to discuss Canada’s renewed focus on defence procurement and the importance of strengthening cooperation between government, industry and international partners as Canada advances its defence investment priorities.

These engagements complemented the broader discussions taking place throughout the conference and provided valuable perspectives on Canada’s evolving approach to defence investment, procurement, industrial capacity and international security cooperation.

The participation of Chair and President Abdullatif Al-Shaikh and Vice Chair, Operations Dr. Mohammed Al-Anbaki reflects the Council’s continued commitment to engaging directly with Canadian decision-makers, policymakers and industry leaders on matters of national and international importance.

The conference also provided an important platform to strengthen existing relationships, establish new connections and explore opportunities for greater collaboration in defence, security, advanced technologies, innovation, investment and international partnerships.

Organized by the Canadian Global Affairs Institute (CGAI), the conference attracted approximately 300 participants from across government, Parliament, the defence industry, academia and civil society.