Minister Anita Anand visiting Japan and Malaysia to strengthen Canada’s Indo-Pacific ties

July7,2025

RED FM News Desk

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand is traveling to Japan and Malaysia this week as part of the Carney government’s ongoing efforts to deepen Canada’s engagement in the Indo-Pacific region.

During her stop in Japan, Minister Anand will hold high-level discussions with her Japanese counterpart focused on finalizing key agreements related to defence information sharing and trade cooperation. These talks are expected to enhance bilateral security ties and open new avenues for economic collaboration between the two countries—both major players in the Indo-Pacific.

Following her visit to Japan, Minister Anand will head to Malaysia, where she will take part in the ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) ministerial meetings on Thursday and Friday. Her participation signals Canada’s growing commitment to Southeast Asia and its intent to become a more active and reliable partner in the region.

Canada is aiming to sign a formal trade agreement with ASEAN by the end of this year. This would mark a significant step forward in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, aimed at expanding economic, political, and security partnerships across the region.

In 2023, Canada and ASEAN launched a strategic partnership that focuses on collaboration in key areas such as trade and investment, education, and addressing biological threats. Minister Anand’s visit is expected to build on this momentum and lay the groundwork for further cooperation.

This diplomatic mission also serves as a preparatory step for the upcoming ASEAN Leaders’ Summit scheduled for this fall, where Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to attend and further solidify Canada’s role as a strategic partner in the region.