Did Saudi Arabia and Canada Just Break Up On Twitter?
Saudi Arabia has announced freezing all trading ties and investment transactions and expelling Canadian Ambassador after a tweet by Global Affairs Canada was posted demanding the release of detained Saudi-American human rights activist Samar Badawi.
Canada is gravely concerned about additional arrests of civil society and women’s rights activists in #SaudiArabia, including Samar Badawi. We urge the Saudi authorities to immediately release them and all other peaceful #humanrights activists.
— Foreign Policy CAN (@CanadaFP) August 3, 2018
The US International Women of Courage Award winner in 2012, Badawi, has been known for standing against male guardianship in Saudia Arabia.
Statement | The KSA announces the freezing of all new trade and investment transactions between the KSA and Canada. The KSA reserves its right to take further action.
— Foreign Ministry ?? (@KSAmofaEN) August 5, 2018
Following the Kingdom’s reaction, the foreign ministry spokeswoman, Marie-Pier Baril, explained that the Canadian government will never hesitate to promote these values and believe that this dialogue is critical to international diplomacy; adding that Canada will always prioritize women’s rights and freedom of expression.
