July 9, 2019 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Today, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announces the appointment of the Honourable Pierre Pettigrew as the chair of the Board of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APFC). The Minister also announces the appointment of Lisa de Wilde, Christopher Labelle and Constance Sugiyama as directors to the board. All appointments are already in effect. These were made in accordance with the Government of Canada’s new open, transparent and merit-based selection process for governor-in-council appointments.

The APFC is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to strengthening ties between Canada and Asia. The foundation focuses on expanding economic relations through trade, investment and innovation. It also promotes Canada’s expertise in the energy sector, in combatting climate change, and in natural resource management and agri-food, and aims to improve Canadians’ understanding of the Asia-Pacific region.

Quotes
“I am pleased to announce the appointment of these distinguished and accomplished individuals to the Board of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada. Pierre Pettigrew, with his vast international experience, will provide excellent leadership to the foundation and its board. Canada is committed to deepening its ties in the Asia-Pacific region and the foundation is critical to informing Canada’s foreign policy interests.”
– Hon. Chrystia Freeland, P.C., M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs

“Since its inception, I have regularly collaborated with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, during my time in both the public and private sectors. It is a tremendous honour to be appointed chair, especially at a time when we, and the international community, engage with this continent on the rise. Helping Canadians understand and better engage with Asia is at the heart of our mission.”
– Hon. Pierre Pettigrew, P.C., Chair of the Board of the APFC

Quick facts
The APFC was established by an act of Parliament in 1984.
The APFC is an independent organization governed by a board of directors. The chair and up to four directors are appointed by the governor-in-council on the recommendation of the minister of Foreign Affairs. The foundation’s board may appoint up to 18 additional directors.

Associated links
Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada
Asia-Pacific Foundation of Canada Act
Governor-in-council appointments
Governor-in-council appointments process

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