CACMR Participates in the International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2026 Forum

Ottawa, Ontario | June 10, 2026 —

The Canada Arab Congress on Middle East and North Africa Relations (CACMR) was pleased to participate in the International Day of Women in Diplomacy 2026 Forum, held in Ottawa on June 10, 2026.

CACMR was represented by members of its Board of Directors, led by Chair and President Mr. Abdullatif Al-Shaikh, joining members of Canada’s diplomatic and international affairs community for an important dialogue on women’s leadership, equality, advancement, and the pursuit of peace.

Organized by the Women Heads of Diplomatic Missions in Ottawa (WHDMO) in collaboration with Gowling WLG, the forum brought together women ambassadors, heads of diplomatic missions, distinguished representatives, and leaders from various sectors to recognize and advance the vital role of women in diplomacy and international affairs.

A highlight of the forum was the keynote address delivered by the Honourable Raymonde Gagné, Speaker of the Senate of Canada, highlighting the importance of women’s leadership at the highest levels of public service, diplomacy, and international cooperation.

The program also featured a plenary session and roundtable discussions addressing women’s economic participation, advancement, and empowerment. The discussions provided an important platform for exchanging perspectives and experiences on the growing influence of women across diplomatic, economic, and social spheres, as well as their contributions to strengthening international cooperation and peace.

CACMR’s participation reflects the organization’s broader commitment to meaningful diplomatic engagement and to strengthening dialogue and cooperation between Canada and the countries of the Middle East and North Africa. CACMR recognizes the essential contribution women make to diplomacy, international relations, economic development, and the advancement of more inclusive and peaceful societies.

“Women’s leadership is indispensable to effective diplomacy and to building stronger, more inclusive international partnerships. CACMR was honoured to participate in this important forum and to join members of Canada’s diplomatic community in recognizing the women who continue to shape international dialogue, cooperation, and peace.”

— Mr. Abdullatif Al-Shaikh, Chair and President, CACMR

CACMR extends its appreciation to the Women Heads of Diplomatic Missions in Ottawa and Gowling WLG for convening this important forum and for bringing together diplomatic and community leaders committed to advancing women’s leadership and representation in international affairs.

Through its continued engagement with diplomatic missions, government representatives, international organizations, and community and business leaders, CACMR remains committed to promoting constructive dialogue, strengthening Canada–MENA relations, and supporting initiatives that advance international cooperation, mutual understanding, and peace.

About CACMR

The Canada Arab Congress on Middle East and North Africa Relations (CACMR) is dedicated to strengthening relations between Canada and the countries of the Middle East and North Africa through diplomacy, dialogue, economic cooperation, cultural engagement, and people-to-people connections.