Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to visit the United Arab Emirates next week, amid concerns regarding the alleged involvement of both the UAE and Canada in Sudan-related atrocities. The UAE is reportedly supporting the paramilitary Rapid Support Force (RSF) in Sudan’s civil conflict, while Canada faces scrutiny over the reported presence of Canadian-made armored vehicles in the same crisis.
Recent reports have highlighted the RSF’s involvement in heinous acts, including massacres and mass rapes in Sudan, raising questions about Ottawa’s relationship with the UAE. Despite these concerns, there is transparency about Canada’s keen interest in the Gulf nation, which has seen significant diplomatic and commercial success in recent years. Notably, the UAE has been granted approval to acquire advanced chip technology by the Trump administration.
The UAE boasts substantial investment funds totaling over three trillion dollars, with significant Emirati investments already present in Canada. National Revenue and Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne, accompanying Prime Minister Carney on the trip, emphasized the strong appetite for Canadian partnerships in the UAE.
Efforts are underway to strengthen the UAE-Canada relationship, which began improving after a long-standing dispute was resolved during the Harper government era. A series of agreements, including a nuclear deal and a defense cooperation arrangement, have paved the way for enhanced trade and investment ties between the two countries.
However, the UAE’s reputation has been tarnished by its alleged involvement in Sudan’s conflict, with accusations of funding atrocities in the region. The UAE has refuted these claims, emphasizing its support for ceasefire efforts and disavowing any association with the RSF or atrocities in Sudan.
Critics point to suspicious flights between the UAE and Sudan, hinting at the transfer of resources and arms. Experts suggest that the UAE’s interest in Sudan lies in securing access to valuable minerals and the strategic port of Sudan. Reports have surfaced regarding the presence of Canadian-made armored vehicles in Sudan, manufactured by a company with operations in the UAE.
Calls for a more stringent arms embargo on Sudan have been made, with concerns raised about the flow of Canadian weapons to conflict zones. Canada’s approach to arms sales and potential involvement in Sudan’s conflict through third parties has also come under scrutiny.
Global Affairs Canada and the UAE authorities have not responded to inquiries regarding their stance on the Sudan conflict. The UAE’s diplomatic influence, bolstered by its wealth and alliances, has shielded it from significant international criticism. Concerns persist about the lack of accountability and transparency surrounding the UAE’s actions in Sudan, posing challenges for advocacy and accountability efforts.