Foreign and Defence Policy

The Foreign and Defence Policy Secretariat supports the Prime Minister in his dealings with other heads of government and heads of state.

The secretariat also provides the Prime Minister with advice on major foreign policy and defence issues. These include international diplomacy, security, defence, trade and commerce, development assistance, environment, international law and human rights.

The secretariat’s work involves:

• Arranging the Prime Minister’s foreign travel and visits by heads of state to Canada;
• Handling communications with foreign government representatives and the offices of foreign leaders;
• Monitoring, coordinating and providing advice on international issues;
• Participating in and coordinating interdepartmental work involving international relations.

The secretariat also shares responsibility with the Intelligence and Security Secretariat for the effective functioning of the Cabinet Committee for Foreign Affairs and National Security.

Further Reading

The Role and Structure of the Privy Council Office (2007)

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