Anita Anand has been appointed as Canada’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, becoming the first Hindu and the first woman of Indian origin to hold this key position. Her appointment marks a historic moment in Canadian politics.

Key Points

• Anita Anand was appointed as Canada's Foreign Minister on May 13, 2025, by Prime Minister Mark Carney.
• This appointment is part of a major Cabinet reshuffle following the Liberal Party’s recent electoral victory.
• She is the first Hindu and first woman of Indian origin to serve as Canada's Foreign Minister.
• Born in Nova Scotia, Anand’s father is from Tamil Nadu and her mother from Punjab, India.
• Before entering politics, she was a law professor at the University of Toronto, specializing in corporate governance.
• She previously held key roles as Canada’s Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Minister of National Defence.
• Anand played a significant role during the COVID-19 pandemic by overseeing vaccine procurement and managed Canada's defense contributions to Ukraine.
• During her swearing-in, she took her oath with her hand on the Bhagavad Gita, honoring her cultural and religious roots.
• As Foreign Minister, she will focus on strengthening Canada’s diplomatic and security ties, especially with the United States and global partners.