Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird today announced that Canada will establish a diplomatic mission to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The mission will be headed by Canada’s first dedicated ambassador to ASEAN, and will be co-located with Canada’s mission in Jakarta.

“The ASEAN region is a key economic, political and security partner for Canada,” said Baird.

“Canada has been one of the longest-serving Dialogue Partners of ASEAN and has worked hard to enhance and foster this important relationship.

“Our comprehensive engagement with ASEAN covers issues like supporting human rights, improving regional security, reducing transnational crime, and increasing trade and investment opportunities.

“Canada’s mission to ASEAN will significantly bolster our diplomatic footprint in the region and will build on the momentum of the Canada-ASEAN relationship.”

Baird is travelling in Southeast Asia in advance of the ASEAN-Canada Post-Ministerial Conference on August 9 in Nay Pyi Taw.

During his trip, Baird made the first-ever visit of a Canadian foreign minister to the ASEAN Secretariat and met with ASEAN Secretary-General Le Luong Minh.

For more information on Canada’s engagement with ASEAN, please visit our Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Web page. For more information on Baird’s visit to Southeast Asia, please consult Baird to Travel to East Asia to Talk Security and Prosperity.