Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit Washington for talks with President Donald Trump soon, both governments confirmed Wednesday, following the Liberal Party’s victory in Canada’s federal election.
During a cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump announced that the newly elected Canadian leader would arrive “within the next week” to discuss bilateral relations.
“He called me up yesterday and said, ‘Let’s make a deal,'” Trump told reporters, characterizing Carney as a “very nice gentleman” despite the contentious campaign rhetoric that preceded the Canadian election.
Trump also said that he thinks the Conservative, or Pierre Poilievre, hated him more.
The meeting will be an early diplomatic test for Carney, a former central banker who had never held elected office before winning his seat in Ottawa’s Nepean district on Monday. His Liberal Party secured a minority government that fell short of parliamentary majority, requiring cooperation from other parties to pass legislation.
Bilateral relations have deteriorated during Trump’s presidency, with the American leader imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum while characterizing Canada as America’s “51st state” — terminology Carney firmly rejected in pre-election interviews.
“Frankly, I don’t think it’s ever going to happen with respect to any other [country]… whether it’s Panama or Greenland or elsewhere,” Carney stated regarding the “51st state” designation.
Prior to the election, Carney stressed that future negotiations would proceed only on Canada’s terms. “We deserve respect. We expect respect and I’m sure we’ll get it in due course,” he said.
The upcoming talks coincide with Canada’s preparations to host the G7 summit in June, which Carney described as a crucial event that would “put to the test” international trade relationships.
Parliament is scheduled to reconvene May 26, leaving the new prime minister limited time to establish his government before potential Washington discussions.
Information for this story was found via the sources and companies mentioned. The author has no securities or affiliations related to the organizations discussed. Not a recommendation to buy or sell. Always do additional research and consult a professional before purchasing a security. The author holds no licenses.
