Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced that former British Columbia premier John Horgan has been appointed as Canada’s next ambassador to Germany.
A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office says Horgan has a proven track record of dedicated public service and will provide strategic advice to Trudeau in his new role.
Horgan, 64, was first elected to the legislative assembly in 2005 and was re-elected four consecutive times, twice as premier.
The statement says Canada and Germany face complex challenges, including food and energy insecurity, and will work to advance shared priorities.
Trudeau says Horgan is a passionate public servant and an experienced leader, and he’s confident that he’ll continue to serve Canada well to advance the two countries’ common interests.
The Canadian Embassy in Germany is located in Berlin, and there are also consulates in Munich and Duesseldorf.
While it’s not the first time, it is uncommon for a federal party leader to appoint an ambassador from an opposing or different political background. Associate professor David Black from Royal Roads University says the writing was vaguely written on the wall.
“I think you see here are the kinds of rare conditions that make it possible for a prime minister of one party to nominate a provincial leader from another party to a very high-profile ambassadorship like this,” said Black.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 1, 2023.
The Canadian Press
Tchadas Leo
