Canada Arab Congress on Middle East and North Africa Relations Honours the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship of Canada

Ottawa, October 7, 2026 — The Canada Arab Congress on Middle East and North Africa Relations (CACMR) hosted a special evening at the Rideau Club honouring the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship of Canada. The gathering celebrated Canada’s relations with the Middle East and North Africa and the connections linking their communities and countries.

The evening brought together ambassadors and representatives from all Middle East and North Africa (MENA) embassies, alongside Canadian government representatives and community leaders. Its intimate setting provided an opportunity for meaningful conversations about shared priorities, immigration and strengthening people-to-people ties.

A highlight of the evening was the recognition presented to Minister Diab by CACMR President Abdullatif Al-Shaikh and His Excellency Jamal Abdullah Al-Sallal, Ambassador of the Republic of Yemen to Canada and Dean of the Council of Arab League Ambassadors to Canada.

For Minister Diab, a proud Lebanese Canadian and daughter of immigrants, the recognition carried particular personal significance. Reflecting on her family roots, she expressed appreciation for the opportunity to gather with ambassadors, community leaders and friends, and thanked CACMR for its continuing work bringing communities together.

The evening highlighted the importance of personal connections in strengthening Canada’s relationships with the MENA region. Bringing diplomatic, government and community perspectives together created a valuable opportunity to deepen mutual understanding and celebrate the cultural and community ties that sustain these relationships.

The gathering also reflected Arab Canadians’ contributions to Canada’s public life and their role in connecting Canada with the region. Minister Diab’s personal connection to this heritage gave added meaning to an occasion centred on dialogue, community and shared connections.

Through engagements like this, CACMR continues to create opportunities for constructive dialogue and closer relationships among diplomatic missions, public officials, and community leaders.

CACMR extends its sincere appreciation to Minister Diab, His Excellency Ambassador Al-Sallal, the attending ambassadors and embassy representatives, Canadian government representatives and community leaders for contributing to a meaningful and memorable evening.