ABU DHABI — Prime Minister Mark Carney signed an investment-protection agreement with the United Arab Emirates on Thursday during his visit to Abu Dhabi. This agreement aims to enhance economic collaboration between the two nations. Carney also announced the launch of discussions for a comprehensive trade deal with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The investment pact comes just a month after Canada and the UAE agreed to strengthen their partnership in artificial intelligence and data centers. Janice Stein, founding director of the Munk School of Global Affairs at the University of Toronto, noted that the UAE is emerging as a leader in AI. She stated, "The UAE can help Canada through both investment and innovation."

Earlier in the day, Carney toured the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a significant cultural landmark known for its stunning architecture and materials sourced globally. He described the mosque as an inspiring testament to the Emirati people's creativity and vision.

Carney's visit has been marked by limited media access, raising concerns amid allegations that the UAE is contributing to ethnic violence in Sudan. The UAE has denied these claims, which have intensified as civil conflict continues in Sudan between the army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The RSF has been linked to past atrocities in the region, and there are ongoing allegations regarding the UAE's support for the group.

Despite the controversy, Carney's meetings included discussions with various investment firms and sovereign wealth funds in the UAE, such as Mubadala and ADQ. His schedule also included a dinner hosted by the UAE's national security adviser.

Stein commented on the UAE's role in the Sudan conflict, stating, "The UAE is one of the principal arms suppliers to the RSF. The Rapid Support Forces have accepted a ceasefire that the Trump administration put forward, and the UAE was instrumental in that."

Carney is expected to travel to South Africa on Friday for the G20 leaders' summit in Johannesburg. His visit to the UAE highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen economic ties while navigating complex geopolitical issues in the region.