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OTTAWA — As global economic uncertainty mounts, top business leaders and diplomats are convening in Canada’s capital today for the B7 Summit, a key gathering ahead of next month’s G7 meeting in Alberta. The conference, held against the backdrop of escalating U.S. tariff measures, aims to address growing volatility in international trade and chart a new course for economic cooperation among major economies.
A central topic on today’s agenda is the United States’ ongoing tariff standoff, driven by President Donald Trump’s efforts to upend the current global trade order. U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley—once Trump’s rival for the Republican nomination—are among the high-profile speakers addressing the summit.
The B7 discussions will also focus on two of the world’s most pressing innovation frontiers: the ethical development of artificial intelligence and the secure supply of critical minerals. Both sectors are strategic priorities for Canada, which is positioning itself as a responsible leader in emerging technologies and resource sustainability.
Ahead of the summit, the head of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce emphasized the importance of trade as the “foundation” of G7 relations, urging deeper commercial ties across the group to safeguard economic resilience.
Strengthening international partnerships has also been a consistent theme for newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who is using his early days in office to build diplomatic momentum. On Thursday, Carney spoke with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, with the Prime Minister’s Office confirming discussions centered on reinforcing the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade framework and preparing for future economic shocks. Both leaders have directed senior officials to explore new pathways for deeper bilateral collaboration.
Later that day, Carney held talks with Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof, focusing on trade and international security cooperation—key priorities for Canada as it seeks to expand its role on the global stage.
As the B7 summit unfolds, the world’s attention turns to Ottawa not just as a host, but as a strategic player aiming to shape the next chapter in global economic governance.
