Canada Shines at Hannover Messe 2025 Amid Transition

Vancouver, BC – written Monday, March 17, 2025 – The sad passing of John Horgan, Canada’s Ambassador to Germany and former Premier of British Columbia, in November 2024 has left a significant void in Canada’s diplomatic representation in Germany. Horgan had attended the Hannover Messe Trade Fair last year and was looking forward to returning in 2025 as Canada took on the role of Partner Country. His appointment by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2023 marked a positive step in strengthening bilateral ties, but with Horgan’s absence, Canada finds itself in an unusual situation as it prepares for the Hannover Messe, scheduled from March 31 to April 4, 2025. As of March, the position of Canadian Ambassador to Germany has been left empty for four months since Horgan’s passing.

Adding to the complexity of the current landscape is the recent appointment of Mark Carney as Prime Minister. Known for his background in finance and economics, Carney has been focused on advancing Canada’s position in innovative sectors. Prime Minister Mark Carney is currently in Paris to meet with European allies amid the U.S. trade war. Next he will next land in London where he will sit down with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles. Carney will also stop in Iqaluit on his way home. So far, I have been unable to find any evidence that he will also stop in Germany on March 31st, but I continue to seek further information.

Meanwhile, under the leadership of Christina Bilyk, Acting Senior Director, Investment / Canada at HANNOVER MESSE 2025, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), and Jayson Myers, CEO, Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen), Canada is gearing up to showcase its strengths at Hannover Messe, being honoured as the partner country. This trade show is recognized as the world’s most important venue for industrial and energy technologies, and it offers Canada an opportunity to highlight its role as a global leader in advanced manufacturing.

Canada is honored to be the partner country for Hannover Messe 2025, recognized as the world’s most important tradeshow for industrial and energy technologies. This year, Canada aims to showcase its cutting-edge advanced manufacturing capabilities, highly skilled talent, and commitment to sustainable, inclusive growth. The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, has emphasized Canada’s role in leading global conversations on innovation and technology, particularly at a time of shifting geo-economic conditions and the pressing effects of climate change.

Canada is set to demonstrate its competitive edge across various advanced industries. As home to the world’s top-rated lithium-ion electric vehicle battery supply chain, Canada ranks just behind China and the U.S. in artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and stands among the top ten producers of green hydrogen. The overarching theme for Canada this year is “Unexpected Canada,” aiming to reveal its strengths to global business leaders and innovators who may be unaware of its potential. Or under the motto “Industrial Transformation – Energizing a Sustainable Industry.

One of Canada’s prominent distinctions lies in its commitment to clean energy. The country has emerged as a front runner in this silent yet fiercely contested race, thanks to innovative approaches and strategic resource management. Canada boasts rich deposits of critical minerals and a strong hydroelectric industry, underpinning its clean energy leadership.

Moreover, Canada’s advancements in AI and quantum computing make it a global leader in these cutting-edge fields. With the federal government’s support through initiatives like the $360 million National Quantum Strategy, Canada is turning research breakthroughs into real-world applications, solving complex problems more efficiently than ever before.

As the world witnesses Canadian industrial excellence on display at Hannover Messe, the presence of over 230 exhibitors will bring to light Canada’s advanced technological solutions. Attendees will find Canada, represented in Halls 2, 7, 12, 13, and 17, showcasing its dedication to innovation and collaboration in various sectors, including robotics, clean technology, and alternative energy. Canadian companies, such as Maple Advanced Robotics Inc., which recently won the coveted ROBOTICS AWARD 2025, exemplify the nation’s innovative spirit. Their AI-driven Autonomous Adaptable Robotic System highlights Canada’s commitment to future-ready industrial solutions.

However, with the absence of a new ambassador since Horgan’s passing and the government currently functioning under a prorogued parliament, this transition period raises critical questions. The head of the Canadian delegation attending Hannover Messe has yet to be announced, and clarity surrounding governmental representation remains uncertain.

Charlotte MacLeod, a representative from the Department of Global Affairs stated,

Canada’s Ambassador to Germany will be appointed in due course. The head of the Canadian delegation to the Hanover Messe will also be announced at a later date. With more than 250 exhibitors and 250 delegates from across Canada, Hannover Messe 2025 is the most important event in our bilateral economic relations this year. Canada will showcase its solid reputation as a stable and reliable partner, particularly in a world of increasing uncertainty and shifting priorities, with a strong participation by Canadian businesses and innovators. Canada is very grateful to the German government for the invitation during Chancellor Scholz’s visit to Canada in 2022 to be the 2025 Partner Country.

As Canada gears up for this high-profile event, the issue of funding arises for those looking to cover it. Unfortunately, there is no easily available government support available for travel expenses, which can be a barrier for journalists and stakeholders intending to report on Canada’s initiatives. For example, Westcoast German Media would love to be able to visit the trade fair, attending the media events and interviewing exhibitors, but has not been able to find a source of funding at this time.

In conclusion, while Canada prepares to shine on the global stage during Hannover Messe, the absence of an ambassador and the current governmental transition, not to mention trade wars and elections, create an atmosphere of uncertainty. However, with a strong delegation showcasing innovation and strengthening business ties, Canada aims to reaffirm its position as a leader in advanced manufacturing and sustainable solutions on the international front.