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September 30, 2026 – Toronto, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada
The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Her Excellency (H.E.), Dr. Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al-Misnad, Minister of State for International Cooperation of the State of Qatar (Qatar). They met on the margins of the Pathways to Peace: Second International Conference on Returning Ukrainian Children, Detained Civilians, and Prisoners of War held in Toronto on September 28 and 29, 2026.
The ministers discussed continued international cooperation to address the humanitarian impacts of Russia’s war against Ukraine and to support affected populations. They welcomed the conference as an important opportunity to advance international efforts to secure the return of Ukrainian children, detained civilians and prisoners of war. They underscored the importance of upholding international humanitarian law and protecting civilians affected by armed conflict, particularly children.
Minister Anand thanked Qatar for leading diplomatic efforts to secure the release of hostages globally, which has led to the return of Ukrainian children through many humanitarian operations conducted in coordination with the International Committee of the Red Cross.
The ministers reaffirmed the two countries’ shared commitment to supporting Haiti’s security, stability and prosperity through sustained engagement, recognizing that these efforts contribute to global peace and security. Minister Anand welcomed Qatar’s recent contribution of over $14 million to the UN Trust Fund supporting the Gang Suppression Force, noting that this important investment will help address Haiti’s ongoing security challenges.
The ministers agreed to strengthen Canada-Qatar relations and deepen economic, investment and security cooperation through the Strategic Dialogue signed in May 2026 during Minister Anand’s second visit to Qatar.
Minister Anand conveyed Canada’s solidarity with Qatar and Gulf partners amid ongoing tensions in the region. She reaffirmed Canada’s steadfast commitment to working with partners across the Gulf and the broader international community to advance de-escalation efforts and to promote lasting peace and security in the region.
The two ministers agreed to remain in close contact on shared regional and global priorities.
