Last week, two European politicians, adorned in symbolic red and white attire, conveyed a message via social media to Canada saying, “you have our support.”
Support was also indicated by King Charles, who planted a red maple tree at Buckingham Palace and showcased his Canadian medals when visiting a prominent naval warship.
On Monday, when Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney embarks on his inaugural overseas trip to Paris and London just one day following his 60th birthday, he aims for more than mere ceremonial backing. His objective includes securing concrete assistance from these allied nations.
Not only is Canada being targeted, like Europe, by a raft of swinging US tariffs, but Donald Trump is making it clear he wants to take over his northern neighbour.
A Canadian official conveyed to me, ‘We value all the symbolic acts, yet we require greater public support,’ emphasizing the anxious incredulity felt by many Canadians — when Trump refers to Canada as the ’51st state’ of the U.S., he isn’t being facetious.
The official communication from Ottawa regarding Carney’s journey, set to begin on Monday, highlights his key focuses—finance and enhancing security—which align well with his background as an economist having led the central banks in both Canada and Britain. According to a release from his office, the purpose of this tour is to “bolster two of our most vital and enduring economic and security alliances.”
His schedule is filled with significant symbols as well.
During his inaugural address as prime minister on Friday, Carney looked back—with a fresh gloss—to the roots of this erstwhile colony. He praised “the marvel of a nation founded upon the solid foundation of three cultures: Indigenous, French, and British.”
Therefore, another stop on this abbreviated journey is planned for Iqaluit, which serves as the capital of Canada’s most northerly territory—Nunavut—and is also home to its Inuit population. The announcement highlighted that this visit aims to “strengthen Canada’s presence and control over its Arctic region.”
Breathtaking Arctic and northern landscapes account for 40% of the total land area in Canada, the planet’s second-largest nation. Safeguarding these regions is a vital priority for Canadians as global superpowers increasingly compete over control of the Arctic territory, involving key players like the United States, Russia, China, and others; this contest represents perhaps the ultimate ‘cold’ conflict.
Moreover, there’s a personal angle to this story. Carney was born in the quaint town of Fort Smith, located in the Northwest Territories, adjacent to Nunavut.
His itinerary highlights that he must swiftly master an additional skill: navigating retail politics. A federal election, mandated before October, is anticipated to be announced imminently. Carney needs to demonstrate his ability to connect with constituents just as effortlessly in both English and French as he does with bankers and financial executives.
Moreover, he requires an appropriate political authorization. When his Liberal Party decided to oust Justin Trudeau, he garnered an impressive 86% of the votes.
Who resigned from their position as prime minister?
In light of increasing demands for him to step down from members of his own party following ten years in leadership.
But Carney doesn’t have a seat in parliament; he still doesn’t have the vote of Canadians.
His Liberal party has recently undergone a surprising turnaround, benefiting from both a “-Trump effect” and a ‘Trudeau boost.’ The party that appeared destined for a significant defeat is now neck-and-neck with its primary Conservative competitors in the latest public opinion surveys.
Appearing as a global leader with knowledge of tariffs and trade presents a strong image when vying for prominent positions amid the looming pressure from outside threats.
“Part of the reason for Mark Carney’s journey to Europe may be to demonstrate his ability to engage in international dialogue with other like-minded entities during this crucial time,” observes renowned Canadian historian Margaret MacMillan.
Upon returning home, voters will determine whether that is what matters most.
Carney will undoubtedly discuss Trump’s strategies in private meetings with France’s President Emmanuel Macron and Britain’s Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Both leaders have gone out of their way to compliment the U.S. president publicly while advocating for their positions in more secluded settings.
Many people will be paying attention to how Trump handles his interaction with Mark Carney, who previously called Canada’s ex-prime minister “Governor Trudeau.”
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The history behind Trump and Macron’s vigorous handshake rituals
Canada’s newest leading conversationalist has been speaking boldly.
Last week, after Carney emerged victorious in his party’s leadership race, he made reference to Canada’s national pastime, ice hockey, a game steeped in competition against American teams. “When others drop their gloves,” Carney proclaimed, earning enthusiastic cheers from the audience, “Canadians are prepared.”
Do not be mistaken, Canada will emerge victorious.
However, everybody understands that this situation is far from being a game. Carney referred to this intensifying trade conflict as “the biggest challenge of our lifetimes.” Over 80 percent of Canada’s exports head towards the United States.
Even though some instances of Canadians displaying the U.S. flag have surfaced, a recent survey conducted by the Angus Reid Institute revealed that an overwhelming 91% of Canadians oppose joining as the 51st state.
- Canada comments on tardy and insufficient response as Trump wavers on tariffs.
On Friday, amid Ottawa’s frigid conditions, Carney adopted a more genial demeanor, emphasizing his shared history with Trump in the business world, particularly in real estate.
“The president is a successful businessperson and dealmaker. We are his largest client in so many industries,” he remarked. “Clients expect respect and working together in a proper commercial way.”
Carney says he “looks forward” to speaking with President Trump. But the fact it will be a call, not a visit, is a measure of this moment. Traditionally, the first foreign visit of a Canadian leader is to the US – its closest neighbour and most trusted partner.
On Monday, Carney is anticipated to meet with King Charles, who serves as Canada’s head of state. The British monarch has recently conveyed his “utmost fondness” for Canada and is reported to have already written a personal letter to the newly appointed prime minister.
In his non-political capacity, expressing affection publicly might represent the extent of the King’s influence. Nevertheless, this act still conveys a powerful message to the American president.
Sir Keir has referred to Canada as “a significant and crucial ally.” However, last week, the leader of Britain’s Liberal Democrats, Ed Davey, urged Sir Keir to demonstrate greater public backing for Canada in response to what he termed “disturbing assaults” on its autonomy.
This might be a week where the age-old saying in diplomacy and politics holds true: “taking action and being visibly active.”
