Minister of Foreign Affairs (Canada): Meaning (information, definition, explanation, facts)

In the Cabinet of Canada, the Minister of Foreign Affairs is responsible for overseeing the federal government's international relations department, Foreign Affairs Canada. From 1909 to 1995 the position was known as the Secretary of State for External Affairs. The current minister is Pierre Pettigrew.

The position is considered a good one because of the associated prestige, frequent appearances in the press, and the wide spread respect both within Canada and abroad for Canada's Foreign Affairs Department. The great disadvantage is that it is largely powerless. Almost all major decisions pertaining to international relations are made by the Prime Minister. The Foreign Affairs portfolio also grants little opportunity to deliver jobs and money to an MP's riding and supporters.

Cabinet of Canada

Prime Minister | Deputy Prime Minister | Agriculture and Agri-Food | Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency | Canadian Heritage | Citizenship and Immigration Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec | Environment | Finance | Fisheries and Oceans | Foreign Affairs | Health Human Resources and Skills Development | Indian Affairs and Northern Development | Industry | Intergovernmental Affairs | International Cooperation International Trade | Justice | Labour and Housing | Government House Leader | Leader of the Gov't in the Senate | National Defence | National Defence (Ass.) National Revenue | Natural Resources | Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness | Public Works and Government Services Queen's Privy Council for Canada | Social Development | Transport | Treasury Board | Veterans Affairs | Western Economic Diversification