By Agbafo Ijeoma
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is visiting Ottawa for talks with senior Canadian officials as both countries seek to strengthen cooperation in security, defence, technology and other areas of strategic interest.
Canada’s Global Affairs Ministry confirmed that Wadephul is in Canada from Sept. 24 to 25, 2026, as the two countries mark 75 years of diplomatic relations. Wadephul is scheduled to hold separate meetings with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, Defence Minister David McGuinty and International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu.
Discussions are expected to cover bilateral and international issues, including Euro-Atlantic security, economic security, critical minerals, artificial intelligence and cooperation through multilateral organisations such as NATO and the G7.
According to Germany’s Foreign Ministry, the visit is aimed at advancing a long-term strategic partnership between the two countries. Areas of potential cooperation also include energy, research and innovation, maritime security in the North Atlantic and Arctic affairs.
The visit comes as European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has proposed closer ties between Canada and the European Union, including the possibility of Canada becoming the bloc’s first “associate member”.
Technology, artificial intelligence, defence equipment production and Arctic policy have been identified as possible areas for deeper cooperation under the proposal.
Wadephul is expected to return to New York later on Friday to continue Germany’s participation in the UN General Debate. He is scheduled to address the UN General Assembly on Saturday on behalf of Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
