Prime Minister Mark Carney spoke with the Amir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on July 20, 2026, to reaffirm the strong partnership between Canada and Qatar. The conversation focused on strengthening growing economic, defence, security, and cultural ties between the two nations.

Prime Minister Carney extended his condolences to His Highness, the Al Thani family, and the people of Qatar following the passing of the Father Amir, His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani. The leaders reflected on the profound impact of his public life and his contributions to establishing Qatar as an influential global leader.

Key Discussion Points

The dialogue covered several areas of mutual interest and cooperation:

• Economic Ties: Both leaders acknowledged the growing economic relationship between Canada and Qatar.
• Defence and Security: The discussion included regional security situations and cooperation on shared priorities.
• Cultural Relations: The leaders highlighted the importance of cultural ties in strengthening bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Carney expressed Canada's sympathy during this difficult period and emphasized the enduring nature of the partnership. The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact to further advance their shared interests.

The Government of Canada is strengthening the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) to help families manage the rising costs of raising children. Starting July 20, 2026, the CCB will provide families with up to $8,157 per child under the age of six and up to $6,883 per child aged six to 17. This represents an increase of up to $160 per child under age six and up to $135 per child aged six to 17 compared with the previous year, offering support for expenses such as groceries, clothing, and childcare.

The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism), highlighted the increased tax-free support on behalf of the Honourable Anna Gainey, Secretary of State (Children and Youth). Minister Valdez was joined by Chi Nguyen, Member of Parliament for Spadina–Harbourfront, and Vince Gasparro, Member of Parliament for Eglinton–Lawrence, in Toronto on July 20, 2026. The CCB is indexed to inflation annually to ensure support remains responsive to the cost of living.

National and Provincial Impact

In Ontario alone, the CCB provides more than $11 billion annually to approximately 1.4 million families, supporting roughly 2.3 million children. Across the country, the CCB supports about 3.6 million families caring for six million children, delivering approximately $30 billion in annual tax-free payments. Since its introduction, the benefit has helped lift hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty and reduced the rate of severe food insecurity by one-third among low-income families.

Payment Details

The amount received under the CCB depends on the number and ages of children in care and the prior year's adjusted net family income. Annual indexation takes effect on July 1 to coincide with the beginning of the program year for payments, which runs from July 1 to June 30 each year.

For example, a family with one child aged five and one child aged nine with an adjusted family net income of $65,000 will receive approximately $11,430 in 2026–2027. This represents nearly $400 more than they would have received in 2025–2026.