Jonathan Wilkinson to become Canada's ambassador to the European Union under Mark Carney

Jonathan Wilkinson has been appointed as Canada’s next ambassador to the European Union, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Thursday.

In a statement, Carney said: “With his vast experience as a minister, entrepreneur, and businessperson, Jonathan Wilkinson will drive this mission to help create greater security, prosperity, and sustainability on both sides of the Atlantic.”

Wilkinson is expected to begin the role this summer. Canada has not had a permanent ambassador to the European Union since last autumn.

The former cabinet minister will replace Stephane Dion, whom Carney thanked “for his distinguished service and contributions.”

Wilkinson described the appointment as a “very emotional moment” for himself and his family because it means stepping down as a Member of Parliament.

“This decision was not easy. Representing this community and serving all Canadians at the Cabinet table has been the greatest honour of my professional life. But 2026 is not 2015. The world has changed in fundamental ways, and Canada now faces new economic, geopolitical, and environmental tests,” Wilkinson wrote in a statement shared on X.

Wilkinson added that he accepted the role because of his “commitment to Canada and a belief that, at this moment, this is where I can contribute most.”

First elected in 2015, Wilkinson represented the North Vancouver-Capilano riding and previously served as environment and natural resources minister under former prime minister Justin Trudeau.