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. It 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:

• Arranges the Prime Minister's foreign travel and visits by heads of state to Canada
• Handles communications with foreign government representatives and the offices of foreign leaders
• Monitors, and provides advice on international issues
• Coordinates interdepartmental work involving international relations

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

Further Reading

The Role and Structure of the Privy Council Office (2010)

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