foreign minister

American  

noun

1. (in countries other than the U.S.) a cabinet minister who conducts and supervises foreign and diplomatic relations with other states.

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foreign minister British  

noun

1. US equivalent: secretary of state.  (often capitals) a cabinet minister who is responsible for a country's dealings with other countries

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Other Word Forms

• foreign ministry
  noun

Etymology

Origin of foreign minister

First recorded in 1700–10

Example Sentences

Ukraine's foreign minister Andrii Sybiha welcomed the report, saying it was "a crucial step on the painful road to truth and accountability".

From BBC • May 29, 2026

Now, Ukraine's foreign minister has told the BBC that Kyiv is keen to introduce some "new dynamics" into the negotiation process.

From BBC • May 26, 2026

Carlos Fernández de Cossío, Cuba’s deputy foreign minister, said that while the country hopes to avert conflict, it is hardening its defenses.

From Los Angeles Times • May 22, 2026

Former Prime Minister Yair Lapid visited in 2021 in his capacity as foreign minister and then again last year as opposition leader.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

I told him I wanted to see the state president and the foreign minister, Pik Botha.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Related Words

• cabinet minister
• secretary of state