Prime Minister Mark Carney Hosts Meeting with Canada’s Premiers to Discuss Interprovincial Trade

Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to host a crucial meeting with Canada’s premiers at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa on Friday, with a focus on interprovincial trade. The Prime Minister’s Office, alongside the office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford, has confirmed the details of this significant gathering. This meeting comes just two days before a federal election is expected to be called.

The backdrop for this meeting is the ongoing trade tensions with the United States. President Donald Trump’s trade war has escalated recently with the imposition of 25 per cent tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports from Canada. In response, Canada has retaliated by doubling its tariffs on U.S. goods. Trump has also made controversial statements suggesting that Canada should become the 51st state.

Audrey Champoux, Carney’s lead press secretary, emphasized that the prime minister’s top priorities include defending Canadians against unjustified trade actions by the U.S., supporting workers, and strengthening the economy. Champoux stated, “He committed during his leadership campaign to work with the premiers on these priorities and convene a first ministers’ meeting at the earliest opportunity, which is now scheduled for this coming Friday. This meeting will provide an opportunity for all premiers and Prime Minister Carney to discuss the way forward, including collaborative efforts to create a unified Canadian economy.”

Notably, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith will be attending the meeting virtually, while Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey will be in Japan for a trade mission. Premiers who will be present in person include Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt, P.E.I. Premier Rob Lantz, Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston, Quebec Premier François Legault, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford.

Last week, Ford had a breakfast meeting with Carney at Wally’s Grill in Etobicoke, Ont., where they discussed ongoing trade issues with the U.S. administration. When asked about his relationship with Carney compared to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, Ford stated that he didn’t know either of them well and that he is willing to work with anyone to address the challenges at hand.

Overall, this meeting holds significant importance in navigating the current trade landscape and fostering cooperation among Canadian leaders. Stay tuned for updates on the outcomes of this critical gathering.