Carney Warns Against Nostalgia as Canada Stands Firm in Trade Dispute with U.S.
Canada's PM warns against nostalgia, emphasizing self-reliance amid trade tensions with the U.S. as negotiations stall.
POLICY WIRE — Toronto, Canada — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has made it clear that nostalgia will not guide Ottawa’s approach to its ongoing trade dispute with the United States, as he emphasized the need for a more independent and resilient economy.
Speaking at the Canada Investment Summit in Toronto, Carney highlighted the importance of maintaining strong, respectful relationships with U.S. partners while also safeguarding national interests. He said Canada would not rush into a trade deal but instead wait for terms that reflect mutual benefit and long-term stability.
Carney outlined plans to attract private investment through long-term concessions for the country’s four largest airports, which could generate billions for infrastructure projects. He also criticized the transactional nature of recent American trade policies, noting that Canada’s reputation as a reliable partner is more valuable than ever in a world increasingly defined by zero-sum tactics.
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Despite ongoing friction, including Trump-era tariffs and trade restrictions, Carney noted that approximately 80% of bilateral trade remains tariff-free. He acknowledged the potential for a mutually beneficial agreement but stressed that Canada would be ready when the right moment arrives.
During a fireside chat, Carney humorously contrasted a ceremonial key from his hometown with a set of gold White House keys presented by former President Donald Trump, quipping that “in Canada, you get the key. In the U.S., they might shoot you.”
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
