Key Takeaways:
- Canada’s Ambassador to the U.S. Kirsten Hillman shares a story about connecting with a Republican senator through a shared interest in bison conservation, highlighting the importance of building personal relationships in diplomatic efforts.
- Hillman notes that the United States is a diverse country with many pockets of economic struggle, and that understanding and empathy are crucial for effective diplomacy.
- Despite ongoing trade challenges, including tariffs on key industries, Hillman believes that Canada is making progress in its relationship with the U.S. and that there is a growing recognition of the importance of a stable trade relationship between the two countries.
- The Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) is set for review in the new year, and Canadian officials are preparing for negotiations on sectoral tariffs and other trade issues.
- Hillman reflects on her time as ambassador, expressing a mix of emotions as she prepares to leave her post and return to Canada.
Introduction to Kirsten Hillman’s Story
Kirsten Hillman, Canada’s Ambassador to the U.S., has a unique approach to building relationships with Trump-era Republicans. In a recent interview, she shared a story about connecting with a Republican senator through a shared interest in bison conservation. The story highlights the importance of finding common ground and building personal relationships in diplomatic efforts. Hillman’s approach has been shaped by her experiences as deputy ambassador in 2017, when she first met with the senator and discovered their shared interest in bison. This encounter led to a conversation about Canada-U.S. trade and ultimately resulted in the senator promising to be a voice for Canada during President Trump’s first term in office.
The Importance of Understanding and Empathy
Hillman emphasizes the importance of understanding and empathy in diplomatic efforts. She notes that the United States is a large and diverse country, with many pockets of economic struggle. Hillman believes that it is crucial for Canadian leaders to understand and address these challenges, as they are a key factor in shaping American politics and policy. By recognizing the complexities of the U.S. and its people, Canada can build stronger relationships and more effective diplomatic efforts. Hillman’s comments are particularly relevant in the context of the ongoing trade challenges between Canada and the U.S., including tariffs on key industries such as steel, aluminum, and lumber.
Canada-U.S. Trade Relations
Despite these challenges, Hillman believes that Canada is making progress in its relationship with the U.S. She notes that many of President Trump’s earliest tariffs on Canada have carve-outs for goods covered by CUSMA, and that American officials and business executives have been making more trips to Canada in recent months. Hillman also points to the growing recognition of the importance of a stable trade relationship between the two countries, citing a recent meeting with the House ways and means committee, where every U.S. lawmaker expressed support for stable trade with Canada. However, Hillman acknowledges that there is still much work to be done, particularly with regards to sectoral tariffs and the upcoming review of CUSMA.
The Future of CUSMA
The Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) is set for review in the new year, and Canadian officials are preparing for negotiations on sectoral tariffs and other trade issues. Prime Minister Mark Carney has stated that he does not believe President Trump is willing to walk away from CUSMA, but the agreement’s future remains uncertain. Hillman notes that the review process will be an important opportunity for Canada to address ongoing trade challenges and to promote its interests. Conservative MP Jamil Jivani has offered to help with trade talks, citing his friendship with U.S. Vice-President JD Vance, but Hillman notes that negotiations are typically conducted by a small group of people and that Vance is not at the negotiating table.
Reflections on Hillman’s Time as Ambassador
As Hillman prepares to leave her post as ambassador, she reflects on her time in the role with a mix of emotions. She expresses happiness at the prospect of returning to Canada and spending more time with her family, but also sadness at leaving behind a job that has been all-consuming. Hillman notes that she has learned a great deal about the Canada-U.S. relationship and has developed a deeper appreciation for the complexities and challenges of diplomatic work. She looks forward to what comes next in her life, whether that involves promoting Canada or pursuing new opportunities. Hillman’s reflections offer a unique perspective on the role of an ambassador and the challenges and rewards of diplomatic work.