The Honourable Anita Anand, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, has announced her upcoming visit to London, United Kingdom, and Paris, France, from June 6 to 7, 2025, for bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening Canada’s relationships with its key allies.
Strengthening Canada-UK Ties in London
During her visit to London, Minister Anand will meet with David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom. Their discussions will focus on reinforcing the close ties between Canada and the UK, particularly in the areas of security, defence, and economic cooperation. This visit comes as both countries seek to further enhance their collaboration on these fronts.
Minister Anand will also meet with Shirley Botchwey, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, to discuss potential reforms to strengthen the Commonwealth’s role in advancing democracy, human rights, and other key priorities. As part of her London agenda, Minister Anand will attend a meeting of the G7 heads of mission and engage in a round-table discussion with business leaders on defence and economic growth.
Strengthening Canada-France Relations in Paris
Following her time in London, Minister Anand will travel to Paris for talks with Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France. The meeting will focus on continued cooperation between Canada and France on shared priorities, including defence, security, and the promotion of democratic values. Minister Anand and Minister Barrot will also discuss their respective G7 presidencies and the promotion of the French language.
Throughout her trip, Minister Anand will underscore Canada’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with the United Kingdom and France, two of Canada’s most important transatlantic allies and trading partners.
Quick Facts
- Canada and the United Kingdom share a long history of close relations, grounded in shared values, strategic partnerships, and collaboration across various multilateral platforms, including NATO, the G7, the G20, and the Commonwealth.
- Canada and France have a strong relationship based on shared history and language, with France being a key partner in NATO, the G7, the G20, and the United Nations Security Council. France is also a founding member of the European Union.
- Canada’s Commitment to the Commonwealth: Canada is the second-largest contributor to the Commonwealth, providing approximately $14 million in 2024-2025. Canada also hosts the Commonwealth of Learning in Vancouver, which supports member countries by expanding educational opportunities, particularly for women and girls.
- Canada’s Global Cooperation: Along with the UK and France, Canada works to promote multilateralism, democracy, human rights, gender equality, and environmental protection on the global stage.
Minister Anand’s visit to London and Paris will further solidify Canada’s relationships with the United Kingdom and France, two of its most important allies. Through discussions on defence, economic growth, democracy, and human rights, Canada reaffirms its commitment to fostering strong, collaborative ties with its transatlantic partners.
