Chris Alexander, Canada's former ambassador to Afghanistan, wants to run for the federal Conservatives in Ontario.

Alexander confirmed Wednesday to CBC News that he will seek the Conservative party nomination in the riding of Ajax-Pickering, which has been won three straight times by Liberal Mark Holland.

Alexander served as ambassador to Afghanistan from August 2003 until October 2005, when he became deputy special representative of the UN's Secretary-General for Afghanistan. He held that post until May 2009, leaving to return to Canada.

Prior to going to Afghanistan in 2003, Alexander held posts with Canada's diplomatic service in Ottawa and Moscow.