Canada's newly appointed Prime Minister, Mark Carney, embarked on his first official overseas visit since succeeding Justin Trudeau last week. In a move that has been described as highly symbolic, Carney chose France and the United Kingdom as his initial destinations, bypassing the traditional first stop in Washington. During his visit to France, Carney met with President Emmanuel Macron to strengthen ties with one of Canada's oldest allies.
The meeting between Carney and Macron focused on building strategic partnerships amid shifting global dynamics. They reiterated their support for Ukraine's sovereignty and demanded clear commitments from Russia to ensure lasting peace and security in Europe.
A Symbolic Choice
Carney's decision to visit France and the UK first marks a departure from the norm, as Canadian prime ministers typically prioritize trips to Washington. This change reflects ongoing tensions with the United States under President Donald Trump, who has introduced tariffs impacting both Canada and France.
“The fact that Carney chose to come to France and the UK for his first overseas trip is highly symbolic. Normally, Canadian prime ministers would visit Washington first. The name Donald Trump was certainly not mentioned, but no doubt the US president was very much on the minds of these two leaders, a president who is waging a tariffs [war] on both Canada and France and upturning traditional alliances.” – Natacha Butler
Carney emphasized the importance of fostering strong relationships with European nations, aligning with Macron's vision of cooperation among loyal partners.
“In the current international context, we want to be able to develop our most strategic projects with our closest, more loyal partners,” – Macron
Strengthening Alliances
In their discussions, Carney and Macron highlighted the need for unity in addressing global challenges. They vowed mutual support for Ukraine and pressed Russia to commit to peace initiatives in Europe.
“We are stronger together, better able to ensure the respect of our interests, the full exercise of our sovereignty.” – Macron
Carney underscored Canada's commitment to maintaining robust relations with Europe while also striving for positive interactions with the United States.
“I want to ensure that France, and the whole of Europe, works enthusiastically with Canada, the most European of non-European countries, and at the same time resolutely North American, determined, like you, to maintain the most positive relations possible with the United States,” – Carney
Upcoming Diplomatic Engagements
Following his visit to France, Carney is set to travel to the United Kingdom later on Monday. There, he will meet with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III. Notably absent from his itinerary is a visit to Washington, though Carney remains open to meeting Trump if respect for Canada's sovereignty is assured.
Carney's approach echoes his predecessor Trudeau's stance that Canada would never annex the US. This sentiment reinforces Canada's commitment to fostering diplomatic relations based on mutual respect and cooperation.
