Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney, engages in discussions regarding trade and Ukraine with French President Emmanuel Macron during his inaugural international trip to Paris. Carney emphasizes the importance of strengthening ties with dependable allies like France, highlighting Canada’s unique position as a European-oriented non-European and North American nation. The visit coincides with deteriorated relations with the United States, where President Donald Trump imposed significant tariffs on Canadian goods, leading Carney to affirm Canada’s sovereignty and the unlikelihood of annexation by the US. Macron echoed concerns about inflation caused by tariffs but didn’t directly address the US’s actions against Canada. He stressed the advantages of collaborating closely with trusted partners to safeguard interests and sovereignty. Carney’s choice to visit France and the UK first, rather than Washington, symbolizes a deliberate assertion of independence. Additionally, both leaders expressed their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty amid ongoing conflict, with Macron referring to France and Canada as “peaceful powers” dedicated to securing lasting peace. The AFP news agency reported that Carney has extended an invitation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the G7 summit in Alberta in June. Carney is also scheduled to meet with UK leaders, Keir Starmer and King Charles III, and has indicated openness to a meeting with Trump provided mutual respect for Canada’s sovereignty is demonstrated.

Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/17/canadas-carney-visits-france-to-seek-reliable-allies-amid-us-disputes?traffic_source=rss