Quebec Party Names Montreal International CEO Candidate in Pointe‑aux‑Trembles

The Parti Québécois announced on August 23, 2026 that Stéphane Paquet, chief executive officer of Montreal International, will stand as its candidate in the Pointe‑aux‑Trembles riding of Montreal. The decision adds a senior economic figure to the party’s slate as it prepares for upcoming provincial elections.

Paquet’s appointment is presented as a move to strengthen the party’s economic team. By selecting the head of an organization that promotes investment and international business in the city, the Parti Québécois aims to broaden its expertise on economic issues and present a more robust platform to voters in the eastern borough of Montreal.

The riding of Pointe‑aux‑Trembles, located in the borough of the same name, has become a focal point for the party’s efforts to increase its visibility in the Montreal region. Historically, the Parti Québécoist presence in the area has been modest, and the addition of a high‑profile candidate is intended to raise its profile among local constituents.

Montreal International, the agency led by Paquet, works to attract foreign investment and support the growth of local businesses. While the organization’s mandate is not political, its CEO’s experience in international trade and economic development is viewed by the party as an asset for shaping policy proposals and campaign messaging.

The announcement was made without reference to any specific policy proposals, but party officials indicated that the new candidacy reflects a broader strategy to reinforce the economic credibility of the Parti Québécois across the province. As the election calendar advances, the party will continue to field candidates in key ridings, with the aim of expanding its reach beyond its traditional strongholds.

Stéphane Paquet’s transition from a leadership role in a municipal economic agency to a provincial political candidacy marks a notable shift, underscoring the Parti Québécois’s focus on integrating business expertise into its political agenda as it seeks to compete for votes in Montreal’s diverse electoral landscape.