Bob Rae named Canadian ambassador to UN

ANKARA

Bob Rae has been appointed as Canada's new ambassador to the UN, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Office announced Monday.

Rae, who served earlier as Canada's special envoy on humanitarian and refugee issues during the Rohingya crisis and special envoy to Myanmar, will succeed Marc-Andre Blanchard.

"In these positions, Mr. Rae closely collaborated with the UN and the international community to help lead Canada’s efforts to address pressing humanitarian and refugee issues around the world," the office said in a statement.

He will build on the work of the outgoing ambassador to "help advance Canada’s interests abroad, including to further sustainable development and address the impacts of climate change," it added.

“Bob Rae has dedicated his life to serving Canadians and our country, and his experience and thoughtful approach will serve us well in this new role as our Ambassador to the United Nations," Trudeau said. "Together, we will strengthen our international relationships and continue to fully engage on the world stage to help build a better future that benefits everyone.”

The president also thanked Blanchard for the "vital role" he played.

The announcement came after Canada lost the election bid to be a member of the UN Security Council last month.