Ottawa – Canada has appointed career diplomat Kevin Hamilton as its Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia, a newly emphasized role reflecting Canada’s commitment to regional stability and diplomatic engagement. Hamilton, who concluded his tenure as Canada’s Ambassador to Türkiye in February 2026, brings extensive experience in international security, political relations and regional affairs to the position. The appointment underscores Canada’s focus on navigating complex geopolitical challenges in the region, including ongoing conflicts and evolving security dynamics.
Hamilton’s appointment comes at a pivotal moment, as the Caucasus and Central Asia grapple with a range of issues, from territorial disputes to energy security and the broader implications of the war in Ukraine. Canada’s increased diplomatic presence aims to foster dialogue, support democratic institutions, and promote economic cooperation within the region. The role of Special Representative will be crucial in coordinating Canada’s efforts and strengthening partnerships with key actors.
Throughout his 30-year career with the Canadian Foreign Service, Hamilton has held several key positions, most recently serving as Canada’s Ambassador to Türkiye from 2023 to 2026, with concurrent accreditation to Azerbaijan, and Georgia. Canada and Türkiye have maintained diplomatic relations since 1943, and Hamilton’s recent role has been instrumental in maintaining those ties. Prior to that, he served as Ambassador to Romania, Bulgaria, and the Republic of Moldova from 2016 to 2020.
From 2020 to 2023, Hamilton was Director General for International Security Policy at Global Affairs Canada, where he oversaw Canada’s international defence and security relations, including its involvement with NATO and transatlantic security initiatives. His responsibilities also encompassed North American defence cooperation, Indo-Pacific security policy, and non-proliferation and arms control efforts. This experience positions him well to address the multifaceted security concerns prevalent in the Caucasus and Central Asia.
Extensive Regional Expertise
Before his role as Director General, Hamilton served as Director of the Eastern Europe and Eurasia Division from 2013 to 2016, responsible for Canada’s political and trade relations with 19 countries spanning the Western Balkans to Central Asia. This included managing Canada’s engagement with countries facing significant political and economic transitions. Earlier in his career, from 2010 to 2013, he led the Canadian Embassy in Lithuania, also with concurrent accreditation to Estonia and Latvia, further solidifying his expertise in the region.
Hamilton’s diplomatic postings also include serving as Political Counsellor at the Canadian High Commission in the United Kingdom, and Deputy Director roles within the Conflict Prevention and Peacebuilding Group and the Policy Planning Staff. He has also been posted to Canadian embassies in Tel Aviv and Sarajevo, demonstrating a broad range of international experience.
He holds a Master of Arts in International Affairs from Carleton University’s Norman Paterson School of International Affairs in Ottawa, and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.
Canada-Türkiye Relations and Regional Context
The appointment of a Special Representative for the Caucasus and Central Asia reflects Canada’s growing recognition of the strategic importance of the region. Canada and Turkey are both members of NATO, the G20, and several other international organizations, fostering a framework for cooperation on a range of issues. However, relations have been occasionally strained by Canada’s recognition of the Armenian Genocide in 2004, a decision that Turkey has consistently opposed. This recognition has had an adverse effect on the bilateral relations between the two countries.
In 2024, two-way merchandise trade between Canada and Türkiye exceeded $4.3 billion, with Canadian exports totaling $1.3 billion and imports reaching $3.1 billion. Key Canadian exports to Türkiye include lentils and chickpeas, while imports consist of flat-rolled iron sheet products and tugboats. The appointment of Hamilton, with his deep understanding of the region, is expected to facilitate further economic and political engagement.
Looking ahead, Hamilton’s role will be critical in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of the Caucasus and Central Asia, fostering dialogue, and promoting Canada’s interests in the region. His extensive experience and regional expertise position him well to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The coming months will be crucial in establishing the priorities and strategies for this newly emphasized diplomatic effort.
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