Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney Seeks Stronger Ties with European Allies Amid US Tensions
PARIS: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized on Monday that Canada is prioritizing stronger relationships with “reliable” European allies as he began a transatlantic tour. This move comes as Canada faces unprecedented economic and sovereignty challenges from its southern neighbor, the United States.
Carney, who recently succeeded Justin Trudeau and previously served as the Bank of England governor, chose France and the United Kingdom for his first international visits as prime minister, notably bypassing the United States. This decision follows heightened tensions with Washington, particularly under the administration of former President Donald Trump.
Describing Canada as the “most European of non-European countries,” Carney stressed the importance of deepening ties with European nations like France while striving to maintain positive relations with the United States.
“At this critical time, it is more important than ever for Canada to strengthen its partnerships with dependable allies such as France,” Carney stated during a press conference with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace. This marked Carney’s first overseas trip since assuming office on Friday.
He added, “I am committed to ensuring that France and the broader European community work closely with Canada, a nation deeply aligned with European values, while also striving to preserve constructive relations with the United States.”
Carney’s administration faces multiple challenges, including a trade dispute with the US, Trump’s past threats to undermine Canadian sovereignty, and upcoming domestic elections. Trump’s imposition of escalating tariffs on Canadian goods has raised concerns of a potential recession, while his dismissive attitude toward Canada’s independence has strained the historically close relationship between the two nations.
Public opinion in Canada overwhelmingly rejects Trump’s suggestion that the country would benefit from becoming the “51st state of the United States.” However, the ongoing trade conflict poses a significant threat to Canada’s economy, which has long relied on a strong partnership with the US.
Strengthening Alliances in Support of Ukraine
Canada, France, and the UK are among the NATO members that have consistently supported Ukraine’s government and military since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. This stands in contrast to the Trump administration’s pressure on Kyiv to make concessions to Moscow.
London and Paris are currently developing plans for a coalition security force in Ukraine and seeking additional allies. Macron, alongside Carney, emphasized the need for a “solid and lasting peace” in Ukraine, backed by robust security guarantees to prevent further Russian aggression and ensure stability across Europe.
“We will continue to stand with Ukraine and demand clear commitments from Russia,” Macron stated.
Carney echoed this sentiment, highlighting the shared commitment to sovereignty and security. “Both Canada and France stand firmly for sovereignty, as demonstrated by our unwavering support for Ukraine under your leadership,” he said. This followed a recent video conference organized by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which included leaders from countries backing Ukraine.
Economic Diversification and Arctic Sovereignty
France ranks as Canada’s 11th-largest trading partner, while the UK is its third-largest. With US tariffs and Canadian retaliatory measures threatening trade—three-quarters of Canada’s exports are destined for the US—Carney is focusing on diversifying economic relationships. Canada has a Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with the European Union, which includes France, and is a member of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which now also includes the UK.
After his visit to Paris, Carney will travel to London, where he previously served as Bank of England governor, for discussions with Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III, the monarch shared by both nations.
In his inaugural speech as prime minister, Carney outlined his government’s priorities, stating, “Security is a top priority for this administration, as is diversifying our trade and commercial relationships, particularly with Europe and the United Kingdom.”
On his return to Canada, Carney will visit Iqaluit in Nunavut, the Canadian territory closest to Greenland—another region previously targeted by Trump for annexation—to reaffirm Canada’s commitment to Arctic security and sovereignty.
Carney’s diplomatic efforts underscore Canada’s determination to navigate a complex geopolitical landscape while safeguarding its economic interests and national sovereignty.
