CHANDIGARH: Anita Anand, a Canadian politician of Indian origin, has been appointed as Canada’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs in a significant cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Mark Carney. Anand took her oath of office with her hand on the Bhagavad Gita, a Hindu scripture, continuing a tradition she has followed in previous cabinet appointments.
Born in Kentville, Nova Scotia, in 1967 to Indian immigrant parents—her mother from Punjab and her father from Tamil Nadu—Anand has had a distinguished career in law and politics. She previously served as Canada’s Minister of National Defence from 2021 to 2023 and has held various other ministerial roles.
Anand’s appointment comes at a time when Canada is navigating complex foreign policy challenges, including strained relations with India following the 2023 assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistani activist. Her new role is seen as pivotal in managing and potentially resetting diplomatic ties between the two nations.
In addition to Anand’s appointment, 41-year-old Maninder Sidhu has been named Minister of International Trade. Sidhu, also of Indian origin, expressed his commitment to diversifying trade and supporting Canadian businesses in reaching new global markets.
Anand’s swearing-in has been celebrated by Hindu groups across Canada, who view her as a source of inspiration for the Canadian Hindu community. Her leadership is expected to play a significant role in shaping Canada’s foreign policy in the coming years.
