Bob Rae named new Canadian ambassador to the UN

Bob Rae has been named Canada’s new ambassador to the United Nations.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement Monday morning.

It’s the latest appointment for the former Ontario premier, who was interim leader of the federal Liberals prior to Trudeau’s taking over the party in 2013.

The 71-year-old has served as Canada’s special envoy for humanitarian and immigration issues.

He’s also been Ottawa’s special envoy to Myanmar.

Rae succeeds Marc-Andre Blanchard as ambassador following Canada’s unsuccessful effort to win a seat at the UN Security Council.

Canada was defeated on the first ballot last month by Norway and Ireland.