Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is all set to visit US President Donald Trump at the White House next Tuesday, amid ongoing tariff and territorial threats.
Carney’s Liberal Party achieved an unexpected victory in an election that observers interpreted as a rejection of Trump’s policies, particularly his trade actions and challenges to Canadian autonomy.
“We are meeting as heads of our government,” Carney said and added, “I am not pretending those discussions will be easy.” In his initial post-election remarks, Carney indicated that Canadians chose new leadership to confront Trump and strengthen the economy.
Carney announced that King Charles III will present the government’s agenda on May 27 when Parliament reconvenes. As Canada’s head of state within the British Commonwealth, Charles continues this tradition. Queen Elizabeth II previously delivered this address in 1957 and 1977.
“That clearly underscores the sovereignty of our country,” Carney said.
Since succeeding Justin Trudeau, Carney has highlighted Canada’s British and French heritage. He stated that the previous US relationship of increasing integration has concluded.
“On Tuesday, I had a very constructive call with President Trump, and we agreed to meet next Tuesday in Washington,” Carney said. “My government will fight to get the best deal for Canada.”
Carney previously declared the end of close U.S.-Canada friendship and the 80-year era of American global economic leadership based on trust and respect.
Unlike his predecessor, whom Trump called Governor Trudeau, Carney has not faced presidential mockery.
University of Toronto professor Robert Bothwell advised against Carney’s Washington visit, warning of potential insults to Canada and its leader. “There is absolutely no reason to. You can’t bargain with Trump. His word is not his bond. It’s like writing on the water of a pond, a scummy pond. We have nothing to gain,” Bothwell said.
Four days after the Liberals secured their fourth mandate, Carney outlined his government’s priorities, announcing a new Cabinet installation on May 12.
“Now the election is over, and we are in a once-in-a-lifetime crisis. It’s time to come together, to put on our Team Canada sweaters, and win big,” Carney said. “Now is the time for ambition, to be bold, to meet this crisis with the overwhelming, positive force of a united Canada.”
He offered to arrange a by-election if the Conservatives wanted Pierre Poilievre, who lost his seat, to enter Parliament. “No games, nothing like that,” Carney said.
The Conservatives subsequently announced an Alberta MP’s resignation to enable Poilievre’s candidacy.
Carney reported productive discussions with Poilievre regarding American relations, stating, “I am in politics to do big things, not to be something.”
