H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has met in Ottawa with Harjit Singh Sajjan, Minister of National Defense of Canada, Emirates News Agency WAM reported.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed cooperation ties between the UAE and Canada especially in the military, security and defense industry sectors.

They also exchanged views on the latest developments in the region and discussed a number of regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Sheikh Abdullah reaffirmed the depth of relations between the two countries and the continued eagerness to strengthen them.

In turn, the Canadian Defense Minister praised the strong ties between the UAE and Canada, emphasizing his keenness to enhance joint cooperation across various areas. He also praised the UAE’s pioneering status at the regional and international levels and its initiatives to support the international community to bring stability and peace to the world.

The meeting was attended by Fahad Saeed Al Raqbani, UAE Ambassador to Canada.

Meanwhile, UAE citizens will be able to visit Canada without entry visas from 5th June 2018.

The announcement came during a meeting between H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Ahmed Hussen, in Ottawa.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed praised the decision, adding that this move affirms the distinguished ties between the UAE and Canada.

Ahmed Hussen said, "The UAE is a key strategic partner and lifting the visa requirement will help reaffirm the strong relationship between our two countries. It will also promote increased tourism, cultural, academic and study exchanges, as well as foster new business, trade, and investment opportunities."

Around 40,000 Canadians live and work in the UAE, with some 150 Canadian companies operating in the country.