Prime Minister Mark Carney announced Thursday his intention to appoint Jonathan Wilkinson as Canada’s next ambassador to the European Union, signalling a continued push to strengthen ties with key international partners amid a shifting global landscape.

The planned appointment comes as Canada deepens its economic and security relationship with the European Union, building on agreements reached over the past year, including a new strategic partnership focused on trade, technology, energy, and defence cooperation.

In February, Canada joined the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) initiative, a move the government says will open significant opportunities for Canadian defence industries and expand access to European markets.

Carney is also set to attend the upcoming European Political Community Summit in Yerevan, Armenia — marking the first time a Canadian prime minister participates in the forum, and the first inclusion of a non-European leader.

Wilkinson, the Member of Parliament for North Vancouver—Capilano, brings decades of experience in both public service and the private sector. He has previously served as minister of fisheries and oceans, environment and climate change, and most recently, energy and natural resources. Before entering politics, he held executive roles in several clean technology companies and worked in public service on constitutional and intergovernmental affairs.

In his new role, Wilkinson is expected to work closely with John Hannaford, the prime minister’s personal representative to the EU, to advance Canada’s strategic priorities in Europe.