The new prime minister is already establishing a significant presence on the world stage, racking up considerable air miles in a short period. Just months into his term, Mark Carney is preparing for another series of international trips, this time to the United Arab Emirates and South Africa.
The upcoming visit to Abu Dhabi centers on bolstering the economic ties between Canada and the UAE. Discussions will focus on expanding partnerships in crucial sectors like energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. The goal is to open new markets for Canadian businesses and attract investment to strengthen Canada’s export capabilities.
Carney will then journey to Johannesburg for the G20 Leader’s Summit, a historic event marking the first time the conference has been held on the African continent. This summit provides a key opportunity to forge deeper relationships and stimulate increased trade and investment with Canada.
The prime minister intends to leverage Canada’s strengths – abundant natural resources, a thriving agricultural sector, critical minerals, nuclear energy, and cutting-edge technologies – to attract global partners. He will engage with both business leaders and government officials to highlight the potential for collaboration and growth.
These trips represent Carney’s first official visits to both the UAE and South Africa, and his inaugural appearance at the G20 summit as prime minister. Current trade figures show a $3.4 billion exchange with the UAE and nearly $3 billion with South Africa, indicating significant potential for expansion.
Data reveals a pattern of extensive travel since Carney assumed office. In just eight months, he has undertaken 28 trips, encompassing 68 individual flights and a staggering total distance of 152,790 kilometers – almost four times around the Earth.
This travel tally doesn’t even include a privately chartered flight to Egypt for peace accord discussions, necessitated by a temporary shortage of RCAF aircraft. Nor does it account for recent domestic travel, including a trip to Vancouver.
The pace of travel is notable when compared to his predecessor. Justin Trudeau logged 92,000 kilometers in just three months during the summer, demonstrating a consistent reliance on government aircraft for international engagement.
For domestic travel, the prime minister utilizes a fleet of Bombardier Challenger 650 jets. International journeys are facilitated by the newly acquired CC-330 Husky aircraft, representing a significant upgrade to Canada’s long-distance transport capabilities.
