Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has appointed former cabinet minister Jonathan Wilkinson as the country’s next ambassador to the European Union, signaling a renewed push to strengthen transatlantic ties.
Wilkinson confirmed the appointment Thursday, stating that accepting the role was “not easy” but necessary to serve Canada’s long-term interests at a time when global dynamics are rapidly evolving. He is expected to officially assume the position at the start of the summer.
The move comes as Carney’s government looks to deepen relations with the EU and reduce Canada’s reliance on the United States, particularly in trade and geopolitical cooperation. In a statement, Carney highlighted Wilkinson’s experience across government and business as key to advancing Canada’s economic and strategic priorities in Europe.
Wilkinson has represented North Vancouver-Capilano as a Member of Parliament since 2015 and previously served in senior roles under former prime minister Justin Trudeau, including as minister of environment and climate change and minister of energy and natural resources.
His departure from Parliament will trigger a byelection and temporarily reduce the Liberal government’s seat count to 172, the minimum required to maintain a majority in the House of Commons.
The appointment follows another high-profile diplomatic posting earlier this year, when former cabinet minister Bill Blair was named Canada’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.
Wilkinson’s new role underscores Canada’s broader foreign policy shift toward strengthening alliances beyond North America, as Ottawa seeks to enhance cooperation with European partners on trade, security, and sustainability.