Anita Anand, Canada's new Foreign Minister, was sworn in placing her hand on the Bhagavad Gita. She pledged to work with Prime Minister Mark Carney to build a better and safer world, expressing immense pride in her appointment.
Canada Politics: Anita Anand, a Canadian of Indian origin, has achieved another significant milestone. She took the oath as Canada's Foreign Minister, placing her hand on the Bhagavad Gita, a sacred Hindu text. Anand stated she felt honored by this responsibility and would work with Prime Minister Mark Carney to create a better and safer world.
Major Cabinet Shuffle in Canada
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently announced a significant reshuffle of his cabinet. This reshuffle saw Anita Anand, of Indian origin, appointed as the new Foreign Minister, replacing Mélanie Joly, who has been assigned the role of Minister of Industry.
Carney's cabinet now boasts 50% female representation. He stated that his cabinet would work to bring about changes that reflect the desires and needs of the Canadian people.
Anita Anand's Deep Connection to India
Anita Anand's family roots are firmly in India. Her father is from Tamil Nadu and her mother from Punjab. However, her parents later immigrated to Canada. Anand was born in Nova Scotia in 1967. Both her parents were doctors.
She has also served as a law professor at the University of Toronto. Anand has always proudly embraced her Indian heritage and highlighted her connection to India on occasions such as Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and Republic Day.
Political Journey: From 2019 to Foreign Minister
Anand's political journey began in 2019 when she was first elected as a Member of Parliament from Oakville. Subsequently, she served as Minister of National Defence from 2021 to 2023 and as President of the Treasury Board from 2023 to 2024.
In the 2025 elections, she retained her seat and became a cabinet minister in Mark Carney's minority government. Anand is a lawyer and professor by profession, possessing extensive experience in the legal field.
Significance of Becoming Foreign Minister
Anand's appointment as Foreign Minister is expected to strengthen India-Canada relations. During her tenure as Minister of National Defence, she took several steps to improve defence cooperation between the two countries. In her new role, she will aim to give new direction to economic, strategic, and cultural ties.
Liberal Party Government in Canada
In the recent Canadian general elections, the Liberal Party won 169 out of 343 seats. While 172 seats were needed for a majority, the party fell short by three seats. Nevertheless, the Liberal Party formed a minority government, marking its fourth consecutive term in power.
Anita Anand's Statement
After being sworn in, Anand stated, "I am honored to be chosen as Canada's Foreign Minister. Our team is fully committed to building a better and safer world under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney. We will strengthen Canada's role on all global platforms."
