WANA (Jun 26) – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said that Canada should reopen its diplomatic missions in Iran and Venezuela, while stressing that his remarks do not signal a decision to fully restore diplomatic relations with Tehran.

 

Speaking at a press conference, Carney said Canada needs a diplomatic presence in countries such as Iran and Venezuela, arguing that the absence of embassies limits Ottawa’s ability to assist its citizens abroad.

 

“There are countries with which we do not share the same views. Iran and Venezuela are two examples, and there are others,” Carney said. “This puts us in a position of weakness, particularly when it comes to helping Canadians who are in those countries.”

 

The prime minister pointed to a number of consular challenges, including the evacuation of Canadian citizens from Iran and difficulties providing assistance in Venezuela, saying that without a direct diplomatic presence, Canada has had to rely on third countries to provide consular services.

 

However, Carney emphasized that his comments reflected a broader policy consideration and should not be interpreted as a decision to fully normalize relations with Iran or reopen Canada’s embassy in Tehran.

 

Canada closed its embassy in Tehran and suspended diplomatic relations with Iran in 2012. It also shut down its embassy in Caracas in 2019. Italy currently serves as Canada’s protecting power in Iran, providing limited consular assistance to Canadian citizens.