Saudi Food Security President Meets Canadian Deputy Minister in Riyadh to Bolster Cooperation

High-Level Discussions on Food Security

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – On Monday, January 12, 2026, a significant meeting took place in Riyadh between Ahmad bin Abdulaziz Al-Fares, President of the General Food Security Authority (GFSA) of Saudi Arabia, and Jodi Banks, the Deputy Minister of Trade and Export Development for the government of Saskatchewan, Canada. The discussions centered on critical aspects of food security and potential avenues for enhanced cooperation between the two nations.

Focus on Bilateral Cooperation and Expertise Exchange

During the meeting, both officials engaged in comprehensive talks regarding the state of food security in their respective countries. A primary objective of the dialogue was to explore and solidify ways to strengthen cooperation in this vital sector. The exchange of expertise and a review of other topics of mutual interest were also key components of the agenda.

Participants and Reporting

The Canadian delegation accompanying Deputy Minister Banks also participated in the discussions. The meeting's details were reported by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), highlighting the importance placed on these bilateral talks by both sides.

Context of Food Security Initiatives

The General Food Security Authority, led by Ahmad bin Abdulaziz Al-Fares, plays a crucial role in Saudi Arabia's efforts to ensure a stable and sustainable food supply. Similarly, Canada, particularly provinces like Saskatchewan, is a major global producer and exporter of agricultural products, making such collaborations strategically important for global food stability.