Trump says ‘nice gentleman’ Carney will visit White House within the next week

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Prime Minister Mark Carney will be visiting the White House “within the next week or less” as the two countries look to establish a new relationship following the recent Canadian federal election. The election results were largely seen as a rejection of President Trump’s trade war and his aspirations for a 51st state.

“I think we’re going to have a great relationship,” Trump stated, commenting on the outcome of the Canadian election. “He called me up yesterday and said, ‘Let’s make a deal.'”

Prior to the election, Trump and Carney had already agreed to initiate negotiations on a new economic and security arrangement, irrespective of the election results.

The president acknowledged that both Canadian candidates running for office had expressed a dislike for him, with the candidate who disliked him the least emerging as the winner. Despite this, Trump commended Carney for being cordial, referring to him as “a very nice gentleman.”

While the Prime Minister’s Office has not confirmed the exact timing of Carney’s visit to the White House, it is expected to take place soon.

Looking ahead, Carney has a busy agenda, including assembling his internal team, forming a new cabinet, and addressing key priorities such as reducing interprovincial trade barriers by Canada Day. Additionally, plans are in motion for a swearing-in ceremony for the new ministry and the return of Parliament, potentially with a budget announcement.

In his victory speech, Carney emphasized the need for swift action, stating, “We will need to do things previously thought impossible at speeds we haven’t seen in generations.” Apart from negotiations with Trump, the new Parliament is likely to concentrate on eliminating interprovincial trade barriers and fulfilling Carney’s pledge to reduce taxes for the middle class.

As the Liberals fell just shy of a majority, Carney will need to collaborate with other parties to advance his agenda. Despite being a novice parliamentarian, having secured his first seat in the Ottawa riding of Nepean, Carney faces the task of navigating a minority government and delivering on his campaign promises.

Additionally, preparations are underway for the upcoming G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alta., where Carney will host world leaders in June. This high-profile event underscores the Prime Minister’s role on the global stage and the importance of fostering international relationships.