Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House this Tuesday to discuss the ongoing trade issues and Carney’s recent proposal of Canada becoming the 51st state. Carney’s office confirmed his trip to Washington on Monday evening for the scheduled talks.
The focus of the meeting will be on enhancing the economic and security partnership between Canada and the U.S., as both countries have initiated public consultations ahead of the first joint review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). Despite missing a trade deal deadline agreed upon by both nations over two months ago, Carney has made efforts to facilitate negotiations by removing taxes on major U.S. technology firms at Trump’s request and lifting retaliatory tariffs.
While progress towards a deal remains uncertain, Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc remains optimistic about reaching an agreement before the CUSMA review next year. Pressure is mounting from the opposition for a successful outcome, with Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticizing the delay in sealing a deal promised by Carney earlier.
Carney, who initially aimed for a comprehensive trade and security agreement with the U.S., has shifted focus towards smaller trade deals to alleviate the impact of tariffs on sectors like metals, automobiles, and lumber. Despite other countries accepting baseline tariffs for all goods entering the U.S., Canada stands firm on rejecting such terms in any potential deal.
Industries like aluminum and steel have been significantly affected by the tariffs, prompting the Canadian government to provide financial support to companies like Algoma Steel. Carney continues to engage with Trump on trade matters, including through text messages, and is hoping to make progress during the upcoming face-to-face meeting at the White House.
This visit will mark Carney’s second official visit to the White House since assuming office, where discussions are expected to address the ongoing trade challenges and the potential for further dialogue on the 51st state proposal.
