Akshay Kumar roots for Canada

It’s a new feather to the cap of Akshay Kumar who has been roped in by Canada to be their brand ambassador here. This is probably the first time an Indian actor has become the face of a foreign country to promote it in India. Reliable sources tell us that Akshay is a national icon in Canada having helped several NGOs and even funded projects in the North American country. He has also boosted tourism in Canada by extensively shooting movies there.

Akshay has been signed on as the Canadian Tourism Commission’s (CTC) ambassador to promote Canada as a premier four-season destination in India. It is to be remembered that Akshay also carried the Olympic torch for Canada in Toronto during the 2010 Olympic Torch Relay.

Michele McKenzie, president and CEO of the CTC, was quoted as saying in an official release, “Having a superstar like Akshay on board to boost Canada’s profile within his country will help turn the spotlight on the extra-ordinary experiences that visitors can enjoy here.”

Akshay will serve as the ambassador until summer 2012 and promote familiarization trips across the country that will be reported extensively. Akshay tells After Hrs, “I have had a great relationship with Canada for a long time and I am honoured to have been asked to represent the CTC. I love the country and whenever I’m there, I tend to think that I’m in India. The people are loving and warm and they have showered me with love that I can’t repay ever. It is my second home for sure. The role of the ambassador sees me encourage and promote Canadian tourism in India.”