In a historic cabinet selection reflecting the increasing influence of the Punjabi diaspora in Canadian politics, Anita Anand has been appointed as Canada’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, making her the first visible minority to hold the position in the country’s history.
Anand, whose parents emigrated from India, was born in Kentville, Nova Scotia. A lawyer and academic by profession, she previously served in key roles including Minister of National Defence, Minister of Public Services and Procurement, and President of the Treasury Board.
Her appointment was announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney as part of a broader reorganisation of his cabinet.
Anand’s tenure as Defence Minister was especially significant as she oversaw Canada’s military aid to Ukraine following Russia’s invasion in 2022. Before entering politics, she was a professor of law at the University of Toronto, specialising in corporate governance and investor protection.
Elected as Member of Parliament for Oakville in 2019, Anand has been widely recognised for her expertise and leadership across various portfolios. Her new role as foreign minister is seen as a continuation of her high-profile political ascent.
Alongside Anand, Maninder Sidhu, another leader of Punjabi descent, has been appointed Minister of International Trade. Representing the Brampton East riding, Sidhu was first elected in 2019 and has served on several parliamentary committees, including those concerning natural resources, transportation, and international human rights.
Outside Parliament, Sidhu is known for founding The Kindness Movement, a community initiative aimed at supporting underprivileged students in Canada and India. He has also earned recognition for his background as a successful entrepreneur and advocate for social causes.
The appointments of Anand and Sidhu signal a broader effort by the Carney government to reflect Canada’s growing diversity within its top leadership ranks. Both leaders are expected to play key roles in shaping Canada’s foreign and trade policies amid a shifting global landscape.
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