On this episode of Icebreakers, Nathan is joined by Alison LeClaire, Canadian Ambassador to Russia, Armenia, and Uzbekistan. They discuss Alison’s career history and path to becoming a diplomat, dating all the way back to high school when she noted her future ambition was to be an ambassador. Since then, the diplomatic landscape has changed; Alison and Nathan explore these changes and also reflect on Alison’s experiences in Moscow, Sweden, on the Arctic file and all around the world. Alison also breaks down her perception of some of the inherent similarities Canadians share with Russians, Armenians and Uzbeks; including Northern identity (Russia), hope and energy for building the future (Uzbeks), pride in cultural legacy and heritage (Armenia), and so much more, before discussing business and trade.

Learn more about CERBA here: https://www.cerbanet.org/

0:00 - Intro

0:39 - Introducing H.E. Alison LeClaire

1:20 - How H.E. Alison LeClaire became a diplomat

3:57 - How the diplomatic landscape has changed since 1987

6:05 - The most interesting adventure stories

8:20 - Prime Ministerial visits in Sweden

10:59 - Meeting with Vladimir Putin and prominent Russians

12:28 - Impact of the pandemic on business, cultural exchange and diplomatic relations

15:05 - What Vladislav Tretyak is like

17:23 - Similarities between Canadians and Russians, Uzbeks and Armenians

21:45 - Supporting business during the pandemic

23:57 - Why Canada and Russia need to cooperate in the Arctic

27:11 - How the Canadian Arctic differs from the Russian Arctic

30:40 - Arctic - area of mutual cooperation

33:15 - What made H.E. Alison LeClaire a leader

34:26 - Priorities in life and hopes for the future

35:47 - Conclusion