Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney today unveiled his 38-member cabinet—28 ministers complemented by 10 Secretaries of State—and appointed Indian-origin Anita Anand as Minister of Foreign Affairs, marking a significant moment for Canada’s South Asian community.
“Canada, meet your new Cabinet,” Carney announced on X, highlighting priorities that include forging a “new economic and security relationship with the United States,” addressing the cost-of-living crisis, and strengthening Canada’s economy to lead the G7.

Anita Anand: From Procurement to Diplomacy
Anand, a law professor-turned-politician, previously served with distinction as Minister of Public Services and Procurement. She gained national acclaim for overseeing the accelerated procurement and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines, negotiating billions of dollars in contracts under intense timelines.
Born in Kentville, Nova Scotia, to immigrant parents from India, Anand’s ascent reflects Canada’s commitment to diversity at the highest levels of government.
In her new capacity, she will steer Canada’s diplomatic engagements worldwide, from reaffirming ties with longstanding allies in Europe and Asia to championing Global South coalitions in multilateral fora.
“I am honoured to serve as Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister,” Anand said in a statement.
“Our world faces complex challenges—from climate change to global security—and I look forward to working with partners across the globe to promote peace, prosperity, and human rights.”

Cabinet Composition and Key Portfolios
Carney’s expanded ministry features a blend of veterans and newcomers:
- Shafqat Ali as President of the Treasury Board
- Francois-Philippe Champagne retaining Finance and National Revenue
- Sean Fraser as Justice Minister and Attorney General
- Chrystia Freeland shifted to Transport and Internal Trade
- Gary Anandasangaree, a fellow legislator of Tamil heritage, as Public Safety Minister
- Melanie Joly overseeing Industry
New Secretaries of State include roles dedicated to Artificial Intelligence, Crown-Indigenous Relations, and Tourism—a testament to the government’s focus on innovation and reconciliation.
Charting Canada’s Path Forward
With a narrow Senate balance, Carney underscored the need for cross-party cooperation to pass critical legislation.
“This cabinet is focused, ready, and built for this moment,” he said, calling on all members to deliver on the electorate’s mandate.

As Foreign Affairs Minister, Anand inherits pivotal files: the Canada-US trade relationship, Canada-India trade relationship, the Indo-Pacific Strategy, and diplomatic responses to evolving global crises—from Russia’s aggression to climate-induced humanitarian challenges.
Her appointment not only elevates Canada’s diplomatic corps but also shines a spotlight on the contributions of the Indian diaspora to Canadian public life. Observers note Anand’s rise could bolster Canada’s engagement with South Asia and strengthen ties in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and education.
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