Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said any future trade and security discussions with US President Donald Trump will only happen if Canada’s independence is fully respected.
Speaking to the BBC as polls closed in Monday’s election, Carney said he would visit Washington only when a meaningful conversation was possible—one that recognized Canada’s sovereignty. His remarks follow tensions sparked by Trump’s repeated comments about making Canada the “51st state” of America, a statement echoed again by the White House this week.
Carney firmly rejected the notion, calling it impossible. “It’s never going to happen—not with Canada, nor with any other country,” he said.
Despite the rhetoric, the leaders have spoken and agreed to meet soon, according to Carney’s office. Both emphasized the importance of collaboration between two independent nations.
Trump also congratulated Carney on his election win, which marked a historic victory for the Liberal Party. Carney, a former central banker, took office in March after leading the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England during times of global financial strain.
Trade tensions have been rising since Trump’s re-election, with Canada facing broad tariffs on key exports like steel and aluminium. Though some goods under the USMCA agreement are exempt, Canada has responded with roughly C$60 billion in tariffs on American products.
Carney stressed that any deal with Washington must serve Canadian interests and warned that future talks would look very different from past agreements. He pointed to Canada’s role as a critical energy supplier to the US and said Canadians expect to be treated as equals.
“We’re their largest customer in over 40 states. We provide essential resources and support their food supply. We expect that to be recognized,” he said.
As the global trade war intensifies, Carney is also pushing for stronger partnerships with Europe and the UK. He hinted that a Canada–UK trade deal may be within reach, noting most trade between the countries is already duty-free.
The upcoming G7 summit in Canada is expected to be a key moment for discussions on global trade and may signal whether traditional allies remain united in the face of rising economic nationalism.
Related Readings:
