(Ottawa, Canada) - Canada and the United Arab Emirates signed their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement on October 27, during Abu Dhabi’s crown prince’s visit to Ottawa.

What changed: The signing and new Strategic Partnership are confirmed outcomes of the visit TNC previewed October 25. Global Affairs Canada now lists the agreement as signed but not in force.

The Prime Minister’s Office expects entry into force in 2027. It says full implementation would reduce or eliminate tariffs on more than 99 per cent of current Canadian exports to the UAE. That is a future implementation claim, not tariff relief already available today.

The governments also announced frameworks for defence cooperation and diplomatic training. Ottawa says these accompany broader cooperation on energy, technology and investment.

The UAE’s $70-billion investment commitment dates to November 2025. References to progress during this visit do not establish that the entire pledged amount has been invested.

Negotiations concluded in July; the separate investment-protection agreement entered into force in May. Those milestones are distinct from today’s trade-agreement signing.

Sources: Prime Minister’s Office, October 27; Global Affairs Canada agreement status.

Editorial illustration of Canada-UAE diplomacy in Ottawa; not a photograph of the visit or signing.