Canadian PM calls talks with Trump constructive despite no tariff relief

Ottawa

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney described his recent talks with US President Donald Trump as constructive, even though the two leaders did not reach an agreement on lifting tariffs. During a post-meeting news conference in Washington, Carney emphasized their ongoing commitment to further discussions, including a planned in-person meeting at the G7 summit in Alberta.

Carney rejected Trump's suggestion that Canada could become the "51st state," asserting that Canada is "never for sale." Despite Trump’s rhetoric, Carney maintained that the discussions were focused on addressing issues between sovereign nations.

Although Trump confirmed that tariffs, particularly on the auto sector, would remain in place, Carney remained hopeful for future progress. He acknowledged that some specific follow-up actions were agreed upon and further negotiations would continue in the coming weeks.

The prolonged tariff dispute has raised concerns among Canadian auto workers and suppliers, particularly in auto plant towns. They fear that continued tariffs will harm their industries, but Flavio Volpe, president of Canada’s Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association, pointed out that shutting down production in Canada and Mexico wouldn’t necessarily lead to more production in the US.

Meanwhile, Trump continued to make dismissive comments about Canada's economic importance, but Carney reiterated that the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) remained the foundation for ongoing negotiations. Trump's remarks about Canada potentially becoming the "51st state" were met with resistance from Carney, who stressed Canada's sovereignty.

Trade relations between the two countries have been strained, with Canada imposing tariffs on US goods in retaliation for US levies. Carney’s visit marks the start of a series of discussions aimed at resolving these ongoing issues.