Landmark Step in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy
The Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada has opened a new chapter in the country’s Indo-Pacific story with the launch of its Asia Regional Office in Singapore – a move designed to supercharge Canada’s strategic, business, and cultural engagement with Asia.
With its new base at the Manulife Tower in Singapore’s Central Business District, the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada (APF Canada) has taken a bold step into the heart of Asia. The October 15 opening marked a cornerstone of Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, supported by the federal government since 2022.
Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, The Honourable Anita Anand, presided over the inauguration, calling the office a vital «bridge for Canada’s engagement in the region.»
«This new office is a bridge for Canada’s engagement in the region – in business, education, research, and culture,» Minister Anand said. «It’s a sign of Canada’s lasting presence and momentum in the Indo-Pacific.»
Forty Years in the Making
Opening of the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada in Singapore (Image: Handout)
For APF Canada President & CEO Jeff Nankivell, the moment represents the culmination of decades of work connecting Canada and Asia. «This is a moment 40 years in the making,» he said. «Our new office will be a place where Canadians can tell the story of today’s and tomorrow’s Canada, refresh perceptions, and build meaningful partnerships across the Pacific.»
The new office aims to deepen cooperation not only between governments, but also among innovators, entrepreneurs, and academics driving the future of the Indo-Pacific economy.
Force Multiplier for Canadian Engagement
Barrett Bingley, APF Canada’s Asia Regional Director, described the Singapore office as a «force multiplier» for Canada’s presence in the region. «This space will enable collaboration with ASEAN and Indo-Pacific partners, driving innovation and opportunity for both sides of the Pacific,» he said.
The facility will serve as a dynamic hub for connecting business leaders, policymakers, and researchers eager to explore new frontiers of collaboration between Canada and Asia.
Hub for Partnerships, Policy, and Ideas
The new regional hub will host presentations, networking events, expert panels, and industry workshops – offering a meeting ground for stakeholders from business, academia, government, and media. Beyond convening, the office will provide actionable policy insights and high-quality research to inform business strategies and strengthen bilateral cooperation.
From trade and innovation to education and sustainability, APF Canada’s Singapore office will position the country to contribute more visibly and effectively to Asia’s future.
Connecting Vancouver, Toronto, and Singapore
With headquarters in Vancouver and offices in Toronto and now Singapore, APF-Canada cements its role as a key driver of Canada’s Indo-Pacific engagement. Its mission – to build strategic, economic, and people-to-people ties with Asia – now has a tangible anchor in the region.
As the doors open in Singapore, Canada signals that it is not merely looking westward across the Pacific – it is stepping in, ready to engage, collaborate, and shape the future of the Indo-Pacific century.
