Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced on Monday the appointment of veteran Liberal politician and former Ontario premier, Bob Rae, as Canada's new ambassador to the United Nations.

Rae, who also served as the interim Liberal Party leader between 2011 and 2013, will succeed Marc-Andre Blanchard. Blanchard announced his decision to retire earlier this year.

The announcement came less than a month after Canada failed to get a temporary seat on the Security Council - losing to Norway and Ireland on the first ballot.

Bob Rae has dedicated his life to serving Canadians and our country, and his experience and thoughtful approach will serve us well in this new role as our ambassador to the United Nations, Trudeau said.

Rae most recently served under Trudeau as Canada's special envoy for humanitarian and immigration issues.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)