Canadian Prime Minister Carney Strengthens Ties with Europe in First Foreign Trip, Meets President Macron in Paris
Paris, March 17 – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their strong positions during a joint press conference in Paris, highlighting efforts to strengthen ties between Canada and Europe.
Describing Canada as "the most European of non-European countries," Carney stated, "Canada wants to deepen its relations with reliable allies." He further added, "France and Europe should work closely with Canada so that we can maintain the most positive possible relationship with the United States."
Both leaders emphasized that fair trade should take priority over imposing tariffs when dealing with current economic and geopolitical challenges. Macron remarked, "Canada is an important friend, and our priority should be free and fair trade, not tariffs."
Carney’s First Foreign Tour as Prime Minister
This marks Carney’s first foreign trip as Prime Minister, during which he aims to strengthen ties with Canada’s two historic founding nations—France and the United Kingdom. In London, Carney is set to meet British Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss a joint strategy against Trump’s trade tariffs.
U.S.-Canada Relations and Trade Tensions
A recent sarcastic suggestion that Canada should become the 51st state of the U.S. has angered many Canadians, leading to calls for boycotting American products. Addressing this, Carney stated, "We are ready to meet with any head of state who respects our sovereignty." However, he confirmed that he has no immediate plans to visit Washington but expects to speak with Trump over the phone soon.
Meanwhile, the Canadian government is reconsidering its decision to purchase U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets. Analysts believe that Trump’s trade war ahead of Canada’s elections has created new political opportunities for the Liberal Party, which was previously facing electoral challenges.
Arctic Sovereignty and Strategic Challenges
Following his London visit, Carney will travel to Canada’s Arctic region, where he will reaffirm the country's Arctic security and sovereignty.
International experts warn that Trump’s remarks on Canada and Greenland, along with shifts in U.S.-Russia relations, have raised new concerns over Canada’s control of the Arctic region.
Experts also stress that reducing Canada’s reliance on the U.S. is now a necessity. With 75% of Canadian exports going to the U.S., Carney’s government is prioritizing alternative trade routes and stronger ties with Europe.
