OTTAWA – Stormont-Dundas-Glengarry MP Eric Duncan has been named the Conservative Party’s Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, one of the party’s most senior critic positions in the Official Opposition.
The appointment was announced by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre as part of his shadow cabinet, assigning Duncan responsibility for challenging the federal government’s foreign affairs policies and presenting the Conservatives’ alternative approach on international issues.
As Shadow Minister, Duncan will scrutinize the government’s handling of foreign affairs, diplomacy, international sanctions and Canada’s participation in organizations such as the United Nations and North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Opposition critics also question ministers in the House of Commons, review government policy and legislation, and develop policy proposals for their own party.
“Canada’s voice on the world stage should be clear, principled, and strong,” said Duncan. “We must rebuild our relationships with democratic allies, stand firmly against authoritarian regimes, strengthen our national security, and pursue foreign policies that protect Canada’s sovereignty while making life more affordable.”
Duncan said his priorities include strengthening alliances with democratic partners, addressing foreign interference, expanding trade with trusted allies and defending Canada’s strategic interests in both the Arctic and the Indo-Pacific.
“Canadians deserve a foreign policy that reflects our values while advancing our national interests,” he said. “I look forward to working with colleagues across our Conservative team to ensure Canada earns respect and leadership on the international stage.”
The appointment represents another step in Duncan’s growing parliamentary responsibilities since he was first elected in 2019. During his time in Ottawa, he has served as caucus secretary, Question Period co-ordinator and held several senior organizational roles within the Conservative caucus, earning a reputation as one of the party’s younger rising members.
The Foreign Affairs portfolio is widely regarded as one of the Opposition’s highest-profile critic assignments, placing Duncan at the forefront of debates on Canada’s international relationships, national security, trade and global conflicts. The role also requires frequent interaction with diplomats, foreign officials and parliamentary committees examining international issues.
Duncan said he remains committed to representing the interests of residents in Stormont-Dundas-Glengarry while taking on his expanded national responsibilities.
“I am grateful to the residents of Stormont-Dundas-Glengarry for their continued support and confidence,” he said. “It is a privilege to represent our community while serving Canadians in this important national role.”
Duncan is serving his third term as the riding’s Member of Parliament after winning re-election in the recent federal election. His appointment gives Eastern Ontario a prominent voice within the Conservative opposition as Parliament prepares to debate a range of international issues, that include trade, defence, Arctic sovereignty and Canada’s relationships with key allies.
