History of Diplomatic Relations

Canada recognized the independence of the Republic of Estonia for the first time in 1922 and never recognized the annexation of Estonia to the Soviet Union. On August 26, 1991 Canada recognized the independence of Estonia. Following World War II, Canada received and became home to thousands of Estonian refugees. Currently the second-largest community of Estonians outside of Estonia is in Canada and this gives an added dimension to relations between the two countries.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Estonia to Canada is Margus Rava, who presented his credentials to Canada’s Governor General Mary J. May Simon on September 22, 2022. The Estonian Ambassador to Canada resides in Ottawa.

Canadian ambassadors to Estonia:

  • Kevin Rex (2018-2022)
  • Alain Hausser (2015-2018)
  • John Morrison (2012-2014)
  • Scott Heatherington (2009-2012)
  • Claire A. Poulin (2006-2008)
  • Robert Andrigo (2002-2005)
  • Peter P.L. McKellar (1999-2002)
  • William L. Clarke (1995-1999)
  • Michael Burke Phillips (1993-1995)
  • Mary Vandenhoff (1991-1992)

Estonian ambassadors to Canada:

  • Toomas Lukk (2018-2022)
  • Gita Kalmet (2013-2018)
  • Marina Kaljurand (2011-2013)
  • Väino Reinart (2008-2011)
  • Jüri Luik (2003-2008)
  • Sven Jürgenson (2000-2003)
  • G.K. Stoicescu (1997-2000)
  • Toomas Hendrik Ilves (1994-1997)