Carney, Dutch PM Jetten Discuss Defence, Energy, and Global Security
Canada Netherlands cooperation expands across defence and energy
OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney held talks with Netherlands Prime Minister Rob Jetten on March 31, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence, energy, and emerging technologies, while addressing ongoing global security challenges.
The call marked one of the first high-level engagements between the two leaders since Jetten was sworn in as Prime Minister of the Netherlands last month.
Strengthening Canada-Netherlands Cooperation
During the discussion, Prime Minister Carney congratulated Prime Minister Jetten on his new role and reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between Canada and the Netherlands, rooted in shared democratic values and strong economic ties.
Both leaders agreed to advance collaboration in key strategic sectors, including critical minerals, energy, and digital and emerging technologies.
Defence and Security Collaboration
Defence cooperation was a central focus of the conversation, with both leaders highlighting opportunities to deepen collaboration through multilateral frameworks.
This includes engagement through the European Union’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative and the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), both aimed at strengthening collective security and defence readiness among allied nations.
🇨🇦🇳🇱The friendship between Canada and the Netherlands is very close and goes back a long way. The Canadians played a crucial role in liberating our country. And more than a million people with Dutch roots live in Canada. We work together closely in the international arena, for… pic.twitter.com/pKdJqCa28t
— Rob Jetten (@MinPres) March 31, 2026
Addressing Global Conflicts
The leaders also discussed the evolving global security landscape, expressing deep concern over ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.
Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Jetten emphasized the urgent need for de-escalation in the Middle East and reiterated their support for Ukraine, including the importance of securing robust and lasting security guarantees.
Continued Engagement
The call concluded with both leaders agreeing to remain in close contact as Canada and the Netherlands continue to strengthen their partnership across economic and security priorities.
The discussion reflects Canada’s broader effort to deepen ties with European allies amid growing geopolitical uncertainty and to reinforce cooperation in key sectors shaping global stability.
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