Ottawa should reform, rebuild, and reinforce Canadian diplomacy, not relegate it to the sidelines

If Ottawa is serious about 'taking the world as it is,' it must invest in a stronger diplomatic capacity. Without it, Canada risks making cautious or poorly informed decisions that weaken its position abroad and undermine the partnerships it needs to remain safe, stable, and secure.

Prime Minister Mark Carney at the National Prayer Breakfast at the Rogers Centre in Ottawa on March 24, 2026.The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

Opinion

BY ANDREW ERSKINE

April 6, 2026

With Canada firmly recognizing the need to enhance its national power, Ottawa has put forward serious plans to strengthen its military and economic capabilities in the face of an ever-shifting geopolitical landscape.

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