Reem Al Hashimy Participates in 'Pathways to Peace' International Conference in Toronto
Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs to Ukraine, took part in "Pathways to Peace: The Second International Conference on the Return of Children, Detained Civilians and Prisoners of War" held in Toronto, Canada, from 28-29 September 2026.
She was welcomed by Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Canada, who praised the UAE's humanitarian efforts and successful mediation leading to the release of captives between Russia and Ukraine. The ministers discussed ways to strengthen cooperation and coordination on Ukraine. They also addressed the growing ties between the UAE and Canada following the CEPA negotiations and opportunities for expanding economic relations.
The conference brought together foreign ministers and high-level representatives from various countries and international organizations, building upon the 2024 Ministerial Meeting on the Human Dimension of Ukraine's 10-Point Peace Formula. Participants discussed practical steps to secure the safe return and reintegration of prisoners of war, civilians, and children, emphasizing collective action and mediator efforts.
During the event, the UAE took part in a session on "Advancing Humanitarian Access, Safe Return and Reintegration for Ukrainian Prisoners of War". This participation underscored the UAE's commitment to supporting peace efforts and its willingness to facilitate further exchanges in coordination with all parties.
The UAE has played a significant role in mediating prisoner exchanges, facilitating 26 rounds with a total of 7997 captives released between Ukraine and Russia through their efforts. They also hosted two rounds of trilateral peace talks between the United States, Ukraine, and Russia in Abu Dhabi early this year.
Beyond mediation, the UAE provides sustained humanitarian and economic aid to Ukraine, including medical supplies, food, energy, generators, laptops, and school materials via relief flights and sea shipments. They are also collaborating with European partners to ensure educational continuity and economic resilience in Ukraine.