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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to travel to France on Sunday and the United Kingdom on Monday in search of “reliable partners” for trade and security, according to a statement from his office.
As tensions rise between Canada and the U.S. due to President Donald Trump’s tariffs, which have inflicted economic hardship on Canadian industries, Ottawa is now turning to its European allies for support.
Carney’s first international trip as prime minister will begin in Paris, where he will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss strengthening economic, commercial, and defense ties under the framework of the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
On Monday, Carney will head to London for an audience with King Charles III and a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Following his European meetings, Carney will return to Canada on Tuesday to visit Iqaluit, Nunavut. There, he will assess Arctic security and hold talks with Nunavut Premier P.J. Akeeagok, focusing on strengthening Canada’s sovereignty in the North and unlocking the region’s economic potential.
“Canada was founded on a union of Indigenous, French, and British peoples. My visits to France and the UK will reinforce our strong partnerships in trade, commerce, and defense, while my trip to Nunavut will allow us to strengthen our Arctic security and advance our vision for Northern economic growth,” Carney stated on Saturday.
Carney also mentioned that he looks forward to speaking with U.S. President Donald Trump “at the appropriate time.”
Carney was sworn in as prime minister on Friday, succeeding Justin Trudeau, during a ceremony at Rideau Hall. He unveiled a leaner Liberal cabinet as the country anticipates a possible election in the near future.
In his first press conference as prime minister, Carney emphasized that his government’s priorities will be boosting economic growth, making life more affordable for Canadians, and enhancing national security.
