Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has criticized the Prime Minister in a letter prior to his meeting with the U.S. President this week, expressing disappointment in Mark Carney’s performance on trade matters and calling for tangible benefits for Canada from the upcoming discussions.
In the communication shared with CBC News, Poilievre highlighted Carney’s unmet commitment to secure favorable trade terms and tariff relief during the summer. The negotiations with President Trump missed the set deadline for resolving border and fentanyl-related tariffs, as well as the Section 232 tariffs affecting various Canadian goods.
Poilievre emphasized the increasing pressure from the U.S., with additional tariffs imposed on lumber and furniture, signaling a negative trend in the discussions. He urged Carney to push for the removal of tariffs on softwood lumber, steel, aluminum, and autos, along with addressing discriminatory Buy American regulations.
Carney and a delegation of cabinet ministers are scheduled to meet with the U.S. President at the White House, focusing on enhancing the economic and security partnership between Canada and the U.S. Poilievre encouraged Carney to collaborate with Conservative members to fulfill the pledge of negotiating favorable tariff terms with the U.S.
Despite Poilievre’s criticism, government sources are cautiously optimistic about Carney’s ability to secure relief from steel tariffs during his meeting with Trump. Experts believe that progress is likely, given the ongoing negotiations and Carney’s stature in the discussions.
Overall, while challenges persist in the trade talks, there is hope for positive outcomes, with efforts being made to address tariff issues before the upcoming CUSMA review process.
