Canada’s Bold Pivot to the Indo-Pacific: Why 2025 Could Be a Game-Changer
In a move that’s sparking both excitement and debate, the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) hosted the first-ever Indo-Pacific Forum in Ottawa on October 1–2, 2025. But here’s where it gets controversial: as Canada reevaluates its global standing, this forum isn’t just another meeting—it’s a strategic play to redefine the nation’s role in one of the world’s most dynamic regions. Funded by the Government of Canada as part of its Indo-Pacific Initiative, the event brought together a powerhouse lineup of policymakers, business leaders, academics, and civil society representatives from Canada and the Indo-Pacific. Their mission? To take a hard look at Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, three years after its launch in 2022, and chart a course for the future.
Why Now?
As Canada reviews its foreign policy priorities in 2025, the urgency to diversify its partnerships—not just economically, but politically and in security terms—has never been more pronounced. And this is the part most people miss: recent tensions with the United States have highlighted the risks of over-reliance on a single ally. The Indo-Pacific, with its booming economies and geopolitical complexity, offers Canada a chance to spread its wings. The Forum served as a critical platform to assess progress, uncover new opportunities, and reignite momentum for deeper engagement in the region.
Annual Event, Long-Term Vision
APF Canada envisions the Indo-Pacific Forum as an annual flagship event in Ottawa, designed to foster cross-sectoral dialogue on Canada’s long-term position in the Indo-Pacific. By institutionalizing this conversation, the Foundation aims to ensure that Canada’s strategy evolves in step with the region’s rapid changes. But here’s the question: Can Canada truly become a key player in the Indo-Pacific, or will it remain on the sidelines of this global power shift? Let’s discuss—share your thoughts in the comments below.
Encore Video Presentation:
For those who missed the live event, the full video presentation is available for viewing. Dive into the discussions that could shape Canada’s future in the Indo-Pacific.
