Canada Outlines New Foreign Policy of Strategic Autonomy

Foreign Minister Anita Anand declared the international order is undergoing a rupture, not a transition, and urged proactive adaptation to disruption. Speaking at the 81st UN General Assembly on Saturday, Anand stated that great powers are retreating from economic cooperation and increasingly challenging national sovereignty, which she said is too often treated with disdain.

Anand characterized the upheaval as a rupture, not a transition. Responding with nostalgia or despair is not an option. She used a maritime metaphor to frame Canada's intended response. "The tide does not wait. You must move with it," Anand said. She stated Canada would move with confidence and strength, remaining committed to long-term partnerships, international law, and UN principles. Anand concluded by inviting others to join in partnership.

Core principles of Canada’s new approach

Anand framed Canada’s foreign policy around strategic autonomy, values-based realism, and long-term partnerships as foundations for prosperity and security. Canada would pursue greater strategic autonomy by reducing over-reliance on any single partner. This aim to reduce dependence is coupled with a commitment to values-based realism. Long-term partnerships are described as the way to prosperity and security, with plans to expand relations with both established and new partners.

Building inclusive coalitions

Canada will form issue-based coalitions with small, middle, and major powers to reinforce, not replace, the multilateral system. Ottawa plans to form these coalitions to help shape the emerging international order. The goal is to diversify economic and diplomatic relationships while continuing to support the broader multilateral system. Canada and partners have already launched a 'Partners for Multilateralism' initiative to support reform of the UN and other international institutions, aiming to make them more representative, more effective and more trustworthy.

Geographic and thematic priorities

Canada aims to diversify trade and diplomacy across several regions while deepening ties with key nations. The strategy seeks stronger relationships in the Indo-Pacific, Gulf region, Latin America, Africa, and Europe.

Canada also aims to strengthen strategic capabilities in emerging technologies, critical minerals, defence production, and energy.

Stance on key international issues

Anand reaffirmed support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and a comprehensive, just and lasting peace based on its territorial integrity. On the Middle East, she stated Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank are illegal under international law and represent an obstacle to peace. Anand noted Canada’s decision to restrict trade in goods from these settlements. She affirmed that self-determination is a right belonging to both Israeli and Palestinian peoples, stating Israel’s right to exist and the Palestinian right to self-determination are not up for debate. Canada remains committed to a negotiated two-state solution and maintains that Hamas could have no role in governing Palestine.

The minister condemned Iran's regional actions, describing the country as the principal threat to peace and security in its region. She stated Tehran must never acquire a nuclear weapon. Regarding Haiti, Anand welcomed preparations for elections while acknowledging continuing security challenges. Canada also highlighted humanitarian assistance for crises including Sudan and Gaza, and international cooperation on responsible artificial intelligence and maritime security. Cooperation in support of Ukraine and security in the Arctic were cited as examples of successful coalition-building.

Canada will continue to strengthen long-term partnerships and move with confidence and strength in shaping the emerging international order.