RIYADH: Canadian expatriates are helping Saudi Arabia to deliver Vision 2030 at various levels, as the two countries continue to enjoy closer ties, according to the Canadian ambassador to the Kingdom.
Jean-Philippe Linteau underlined the growth in relations between the two countries, describing these as the “core” of diplomatic ties, during celebrations for National Flag Day of Canada in Riyadh on Sunday.
The ambassador told Arab News that more than 14,000 Canadians are now living and working in the Kingdom.
“These Canadians are working in the private sector, they are CEOs, they are in mid-management, they work in government, in universities — you find them everywhere,” he said.
“The Canadians are here helping to deliver on the Vision.”
Linteau expressed how proud he is to see Canadians supporting Vision 2030, saying that it will deliver “a bright future for all Saudis, and will also be a tool to bring peace and stability in the broader Middle East.”
During his interview, the ambassador also extended a message to the “tens of thousands of (Saudi) alumni” of Canadian universities saying: “Canada is your second home and you are always welcome there.”
The ambassador gave the opening remarks during Canadian Flag Day, speaking about how relations between the two countries are growing, adding that many Saudis have a connection to Canada and vice versa through education, work, and tourism.
Saudi Arabia and Canada restored ties in May 2023 following talks between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum in Bangkok in November 2022.
During his remarks, Linteau also announced that he will lead a delegation of Canadian companies working in the Kingdom’s smart and green cities on a visit to Madinah.
“Following my earlier visit to Madinah we decided to take them to see how the holy cities are changing and becoming a tourist hub and a tourist attraction, and how much there are opportunities to work together to make these cities more green and sustainable,” he said.
As a part of Flag Day festivities, the Embassy of Canada hosted a photo exhibition titled “Unceded” celebrating the culture, heritage, and lives of the indigenous peoples of Canada.
“As Canada comes to grip with its colonial past, this exhibition is about our commitment to reconciliation, cultural preservation, and fostering deeper understanding across nations,” Linteau said.
Flag Day also celebrates the national symbol of Canada, the maple leaf, which was adopted on the flag and raised for the first time 60 years ago over Parliament Hill.
“Flag Day is about celebrating our national symbol, the maple leaf. In 1965, Canada adopted the maple leaf in the flag that you know today,” the envoy said.
The maple leaf “is a symbol that unites Canadians and reflects their common values of democracy, inclusion, and equality,” he added.
