What's Happening?
The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) is set to host its 2026 Indo-Pacific Forum in Ottawa on October 5, 2026. This closed-door event will bring together APF Canada's Indo-Pacific Research
Fellows and prominent Canadian foreign policy thinkers. The discussions will focus on critical issues central to Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy, which was launched in late 2022. Key themes include trade, investment, resource partnerships, defense and security cooperation, and frontier technologies. The forum aims to provide insights as Canada considers the next phase of its Indo-Pacific Strategy, building on efforts to increase Canadian visibility and foster cooperation in the region. Jeff Nankivell, APF Canada's President & CEO, will open the event, and Dr. Evan Feigenbaum of the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace will deliver a keynote address.
Why It's Important?
This forum is important as it directly supports Canada's ongoing efforts to solidify and advance its Indo-Pacific Strategy. By convening experts and policymakers, the event will help shape the future direction of Canadian engagement in a region that is increasingly vital for global trade, security, and technological innovation. The insights gathered from the Indo-Pacific Research Fellows, who hail from countries like Australia, India, Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, will provide diverse perspectives on regional dynamics. For the U.S., Canada's robust engagement in the Indo-Pacific aligns with broader Western strategic interests in maintaining a stable and prosperous region, particularly in countering growing geopolitical influences. Stronger Canadian partnerships in the Indo-Pacific could indirectly benefit U.S. economic and security objectives by fostering a more resilient and interconnected regional framework.
What's Next?
Following the 2026 Indo-Pacific Forum, the insights and recommendations generated from the discussions are expected to inform the next phase of Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy. This could lead to new policy initiatives, enhanced diplomatic efforts, and increased collaboration with Indo-Pacific partners in areas such as trade, defense, and technology. The forum's emphasis on demonstrating Canada's unwavering commitment to the region, despite domestic and international shifts, suggests a continued focus on strengthening these relationships. Stakeholders, including Canadian businesses, academic institutions, and government agencies, will likely leverage the outcomes of this forum to guide their future engagements and investments in the Indo-Pacific. The networking opportunities provided at the event could also foster new collaborations among participants.
Beyond the Headlines
The forum's focus on trade, investment, resource partnerships, defense, security, and frontier technologies highlights the multifaceted nature of Canada's Indo-Pacific Strategy. Beyond immediate policy implications, this initiative underscores a broader shift in global geopolitical and economic priorities, with the Indo-Pacific region becoming a central arena for international cooperation and competition. The inclusion of experts from various Indo-Pacific nations reflects a commitment to inclusive dialogue and a recognition of the diverse perspectives within the region. This strategic engagement also signals Canada's intent to diversify its international relationships and reduce over-reliance on traditional partners, potentially leading to a more balanced and resilient foreign policy. The emphasis on women's business missions, as seen in related APF Canada initiatives, also points to an evolving approach to international trade that integrates gender equality and inclusive economic growth.
