OTTAWA – Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced that Canada and the United States will engage in comprehensive negotiations for a new economic and security relationship immediately following the Canadian federal election.
Carney also informed U.S. President Donald Trump in a phone call that Canada will introduce retaliatory tariffs next week in response to Trump’s upcoming reciprocal tariffs, set to take effect on April 2.
The March 9 conversation marked the first official discussion between the two leaders since Carney took office.
Statements from Both Leaders
📌 Carney described the discussion as “constructive”, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
📌 Trump, in a post on Truth Social, called the call “extremely productive” and noted he would meet with Carney after the April 28 election to discuss politics, business, and other matters.
Shifting U.S. Rhetoric on Canada
Trump’s recent remarks represent a noticeable shift in tone, following months of controversial statements questioning Canada’s sovereignty. Previously, he had suggested that Canada would be better off as a U.S. state and referred to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as a “governor”.
In contrast, on Friday, Trump officially referred to Carney as Canada’s prime minister.
Ongoing Trade Concerns
Before formal negotiations begin, Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc will intensify discussions with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to address key trade concerns during the election period.
Carney, who has been diverted from campaigning this week to address Trump’s auto sector tariffs, is also holding a virtual meeting with Canada’s premiers to discuss trade impacts.
Meanwhile, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet has urged clarity on Quebec-specific trade issues, including:
✔ Supply management
✔ Softwood lumber
✔ Cultural industries
✔ Aluminum exports
Blanchet has also questioned whether Trump’s April 2 tariffs could be postponed following the call with Carney.