Department of Intergovernmental Affairs: About us

The Department of Intergovernmental Affairs manages Nova Scotia’s relations with the federal government, other provincial and territorial governments, and national and sub-national governments of other countries. We’re responsible for developing government’s international and interprovincial trade policy. We also lead trade missions and work with other government departments and agencies to promote opportunities to do business with Nova Scotia, nationally and internationally.

We coordinate state visits, royal tours, official ceremonies, events and visits by foreign officials. We also administer the Order of Nova Scotia program, provide protocol advice to government partners and the public, and support military relations.

• advancing Nova Scotia’s interests in its relations and negotiations within the Atlantic region, with other provinces and territories and with the federal government
• supporting provincial government departments in their dealings with other governments in Canada and foreign governments
• leading government’s international relations and developing a strategic approach to international markets
• coordinating trade policy, trade negotiations, agreements and disputes
• managing government’s relationships with the Canadian Armed Forces
• providing protocol advice
• supporting the Consular Corps in Nova Scotia

The Department of Intergovernmental Affairs has about 35 staff with experience in public policy and administration, trade, international relations, foreign policy, and global current and economic affairs. Staff work in Halifax.

• supporting government’s initiatives to grow the economy
• maintaining and growing Nova Scotia’s positive national and international profile in strategic markets
• supporting economic growth through strategic trade policy