Vancouver, written March 30, 2024 – In a move that underscores Canada’s commitment to fostering strong international ties, former Premier of British Columbia, John Horgan, has embarked on a new chapter of service as the Ambassador of Canada to Germany. With a distinguished career in public service spanning decades, Mr. Horgan brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his new role, which officially commenced on December 8, 2023, with the presentation of his credentials to President Steinmeier.
As Ambassador, Mr. Horgan is poised to strengthen the already robust relationship between Canada and Germany. Both nations share a common vision for transitioning to a clean economy, promoting shared prosperity, tackling climate change, and contributing to peace and security in Europe, among other mutual priorities. With his proven track record as a leader in climate action and progressive governance during his tenure as Premier of British Columbia, Mr. Horgan is well-positioned to advance these shared objectives on the international stage.
During his time as Premier, Mr. Horgan spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives that positioned British Columbia as a leader in climate action policies within North America. Under his leadership, the province implemented a range of measures, including clean energy projects, greenhouse gas reduction programs for homes and businesses, and ambitious regulations to promote electric vehicles. Notably, British Columbia became the first government in Canada to fully implement the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) under Mr. Horgan’s stewardship, demonstrating his commitment to reconciliation and Indigenous rights.
“I congratulate John Horgan on his appointment as Canada’s Ambassador to Germany. He is a passionate public servant and an experienced leader, and I am confident that he will continue to serve Canada well and help advance our two countries’ common interests in this new role, including our shared commitment to building a clean future with good middle-class jobs and a strong economy that benefits everyone.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Born on August 7, 1959, in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, Mr. Horgan’s journey to public service is rooted in his academic pursuits and personal experiences. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Trent University in 1983 and a Master of Arts degree from the University of Sydney (Australia) in 1986. Mr. Horgan’s resilience and strength are further evidenced by his status as a two-time cancer survivor, a testament to his unwavering determination in the face of adversity.
Mr. Horgan succeeds Stéphane Dion, who served as Ambassador of Canada to Germany from 2017 to July 2022. In the interim period, Canada was represented by Chargées d’Affaires a.i. Isabelle Poupart and Evelyne Coulombe. With his unique blend of leadership, diplomacy, and personal integrity, Mr. Horgan is poised to make significant contributions to Canada’s diplomatic efforts in Germany, fostering collaboration, understanding, and partnership between our two nations. As Canada’s Ambassador to Germany, Mr. Horgan’s tenure promises to be marked by continued progress, cooperation, and positive engagement on the global stage.
Quick Facts
- The Embassy of Canada to Germany is located in Berlin. Canada also has consulates in Munich and Düsseldorf as well as an Honorary Consul in Stuttgart. Those consulates focus on assistance to Canadians and the promotion of trade and investment relations. Germany maintains an embassy in Ottawa as well as consulates in Toronto, Montréal, and Vancouver.
- Almost 10 per cent of Canadians claim at least partial German ancestry, and about 400,000 Canadians travel to Germany each year. A similar number of Germans travel to Canada annually.
Note: the head photo was used from the personal Twitter account of John Horgan.
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