Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed on Monday that he has not had any recent conversations with U.S. President Donald Trump following the cancellation of trade talks. Despite this, Carney expressed readiness to engage with Trump or any other global leader. The halt in discussions signals a cooling off not only in trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. but also in the personal relationship between the two leaders.
The breakdown in talks occurred when Trump called off negotiations over an anti-tariff television ad sponsored by the Ontario government, featuring excerpts from a speech by former U.S. President Ronald Reagan. Carney noted that progress was being made in negotiations before the airing of the ad in the U.S. He refrained from criticizing Ontario Premier Doug Ford, emphasizing that the federal government leads the negotiations.
During a press conference at the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, Carney acknowledged the unexpected turns in high-stakes negotiations and stressed the importance of maintaining composure in such situations. Trump, while en route from Malaysia to Japan, expressed his displeasure with the ads and stated his disinterest in meeting with Carney in the near future.
Furthermore, Trump threatened to impose an additional 10% tariff on Canada as a consequence of the ad situation. Carney mentioned that the federal government had not received specific details about Trump’s proposed tariffs. Despite suggestions that U.S. frustrations with Canada extend beyond trade-related issues, Carney urged taking the president’s statements at face value.
The ongoing trade tensions have prompted Carney to focus on diversifying trade partnerships away from the U.S. and strengthening ties with ASEAN countries. He highlighted the willingness of other countries to engage in rules-based trade, emphasizing the need to adapt to the evolving global trade landscape.
Additionally, Carney met with Petronas Group’s president and CEO to discuss international investments in liquefied natural gas. He also visited CAE’s aviation training center in Kuala Lumpur, underscoring Canada’s potential strategic partnership with Malaysia in defense cooperation.
Concerns about China’s military presence in the South China Sea have led Malaysia to enhance its maritime defenses. Despite these developments, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim advocates for dialogue and stability in the region and has called for ASEAN to maintain a balanced approach in its relations with China.
The escalating tensions underscore the complex dynamics shaping international trade and security relationships, with Carney navigating these challenges to uphold Canada’s interests.