Saudia, the national carrier of Saudi Arabia, has declared that it would be suspending flights in and out of Toronto from the 13 August.

Announced over Saudia’s official Twitter account, the development is the latest in the deteriorating diplomatic relations between Canada and Saudi Arabia.

As part of the ongoing row, Saudi Arabia has recalled its ambassador from Canada and has also expelled the Canadian ambassador.

Additionally, it has been reported that Saudi Arabia will cease educational exchange programmes with Canada and has frozen all new business and investment transactions with the North American country.

The dramatic shift in relations follows Canada’s call for the release of detained activists for civil society and women’s rights in Saudi Arabia.