Mark Carney, Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister, has appointed Anita Anand as the country’s foreign minister as part of a cabinet reshuffle, highlighting the growing presence and influence of the Indian diaspora in Canadian politics.
Anand, who has roots in India, replaces Mélanie Joly and will now lead Canada’s foreign affairs ministry. She previously served as defence minister and held other key portfolios. Her appointment continues the trend of prominent roles being held by Canadians of Indian origin in government.
Carney took over leadership from Justin Trudeau earlier this year and led the Liberal Party to victory in last month’s national election. In the new cabinet, women continue to make up half the members, maintaining the balance seen in previous Liberal administrations.
François-Philippe Champagne continues as finance minister, and Dominic LeBlanc remains responsible for US and intergovernmental trade, at a time when Canada is navigating a tense trade relationship with the United States.
More than 10 ministers from the previous cabinet were dropped, including former defence minister Bill Blair. David McGuinty will now take over the defence portfolio. Former journalist Evan Solomon joins the cabinet as minister for artificial intelligence.
Anand’s elevation has drawn attention among the Indian diaspora in Canada and abroad. She has often spoken about her family’s journey from India to Nova Scotia, and her appointment is seen as a moment of pride for many Indian-origin Canadians.
In a statement, Carney said the new cabinet was chosen to “deliver the change Canadians want and need” as his government begins its fourth term.
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The reshuffle reflects Canada’s evolving political landscape, where members of the Indian diaspora are playing an increasingly central role in national leadership.
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