This week, Canadian leadership heads to Northern Europe with a clear mission: to forge stronger industrial partnerships and advance the country’s economic footprint abroad. From August 18 to 22, 2025, The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, joins The Honourable Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), on a strategic visit to Stockholm, Sweden, and Helsinki, Finland.
“Canada is a global leader in innovation. Our companies and workers are at the forefront of international excellence, attracting investment and forging strong partnerships. At this pivotal moment, Canada is strengthening its relationships with trusted allies, diversifying supply chains and delivering the advanced technologies, resources and expertise the world needs,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions.
During their visit, Minister Joly and Secretary of State Fuhr will engage with senior government officials and leading industry figures, deepening cooperation on sectors critical to Canada’s long-term economic growth. Discussions will span aerospace, defence, shipbuilding, biomanufacturing, automotive, mining, and telecommunications, signaling a broad, forward-looking agenda.
“As global security challenges evolve, Canada must reinforce our sovereignty and collaborate with like-minded allies. Canada’s defence industry, with talent and capabilities recognized worldwide, plays a vital role in supporting these efforts. By engaging allies and strengthening industrial collaboration, we can create investment opportunities for our workers, grow the defence sector, and secure Canada’s future,” conveyed the Honourable Stephen Fuhr Secretary of State (Defence Procurement).
Minister Joly will also spotlight Canada’s world-class industries, emphasizing the country’s highly skilled workforce and culture of innovation. She will underline the government’s ongoing commitment to significant economic investments, particularly within the defence sector—investments designed to generate jobs, expand domestic capabilities, and diversify Canada’s global partnerships.
This diplomatic and industrial outreach underscores Canada’s intent to position itself as a strong, reliable partner on the international stage, while opening doors to new opportunities for its industries at home.
