The federal government held a crucial summit in Toronto to address the evolving economic relationship between Canada and the United States. This strategic gathering aims to bolster Canada's economy in light of the potential tariffs and trade challenges posed by the US, which have been temporarily paused until March 4. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized the necessity of a unified "Team Canada" strategy to effectively tackle these issues.
The summit's primary focus is to assess the impact of US tariffs on the Canadian economy. The Border Mayors Alliance, formed by mayors from border communities, actively advocates for cities potentially most affected by these tariffs. Among the participants, Drew Dilkins, mayor of Windsor, Ontario, joined a meeting with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities' Big City Mayors Caucus in Ottawa. He underscored the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration.
"It’s important that this isn’t a photo op, that this isn’t a talking-to session, that this isn’t the only time we get together," stated Drew Dilkins, emphasizing the need for continuous engagement.
To address these challenges, the Canadian government has established an advisory council on Canada-US relations. This council comprises business and labour leaders, Indigenous leaders, and public policy experts. Flavio Volpe, a member of this advisory council, expressed optimism about the summit's potential to spark larger initiatives in strengthening Canada's economic resilience.
Business and labour leaders are advocating for Canada to explore alternative trading partners and enhance internal trade mechanisms. Dennis Darby, president and CEO of Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters, highlighted the urgency for long-term solutions to these trade challenges.
"Structural problems within the Canadian economy that need to be addressed," remarked Dennis Darby, pointing out underlying issues that require attention.
Darby plans to urge the government to prepare support mechanisms for businesses and workers in case tariffs are imposed. Potential forms of assistance include direct government relief, tax relief, or wage subsidies. The looming threat of tariffs has been described by Drew Dilkins as "the most serious industrial threat we've ever faced."
"Aligning on the facts is really important because what’s missing in this whole conversation, at least from my perspective on the U.S. side, is fact," commented Drew Dilkins, stressing the importance of factual discourse.
