Key Takeaways
- The Canadian Prime Minister and premiers met to discuss trade partnerships and domestic investment ahead of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) review.
- The meeting aimed to focus on what Canada can control in terms of forging new international trade partnerships and attracting domestic investment.
- The premiers are seeking to present a united "Team Canada" front, despite ongoing interprovincial disagreements.
- The review of CUSMA is expected to be challenging, with US President Donald Trump threatening new tariffs.
- The premiers discussed ways to break down interprovincial trade barriers and attract domestic investment.
Introduction to the Meeting
The Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, and the country’s premiers gathered in Ottawa on Thursday to discuss the upcoming negotiations on renewing the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). The meeting took place under the shadow of the looming review of the key free trade agreement, with US President Donald Trump already threatening new tariffs. The prime minister emphasized that the day’s talks would focus on what Canada can control, including forging new international trade partnerships and attracting domestic investment.
Premiers’ Expectations and Concerns
Ahead of the meeting, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe expressed his desire to discuss the future of Canada’s relationship with Washington. He hoped to clarify what Canada needs in its trade relationship with the US and how to present those needs during the CUSMA review. Ontario Premier Doug Ford and New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt both agreed with Carney’s assessment that the current situation with the US is abnormal. Holt noted that there is little interest from the US in softwood lumber, making a deal outside of CUSMA unlikely.
Interprovincial Disagreements
Despite the premiers’ efforts to present a united front, ongoing interprovincial disagreements are causing tension. One of the key issues is British Columbia’s frustration over Ottawa’s endorsement of a possible pipeline to the West Coast. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith reported progress in talks with BC Premier David Eby and Carney, but the issue remains a point of contention. The premiers are working to break down interprovincial trade barriers, but more needs to be done to realize Canada’s full potential.
CUSMA Review and Trade Partnerships
The review of CUSMA is expected to be challenging, with the US seeking to renegotiate certain aspects of the agreement. Canada is looking to forge new international trade partnerships and attract domestic investment to strengthen its economy. Carney emphasized the importance of building new partnerships abroad while transforming Canada’s economy at home. The premiers are seeking to work together to achieve these goals and present a united front in the face of uncertainty with the US.
Conclusion and Next Steps
The meeting between the prime minister and premiers marked an important step in Canada’s efforts to navigate the complex trade landscape. The premiers are committed to working together to break down interprovincial trade barriers and attract domestic investment. As the CUSMA review approaches, Canada will need to present a united front and clearly articulate its needs and goals. The outcome of the review will have significant implications for Canada’s economy and trade relationships, and the premiers will need to continue working together to achieve the best possible outcome.
