Prime Minister Mark Carney says Canada does not plan to use energy exports or critical minerals as leverage in upcoming trade negotiations with the United States, even as Ottawa continues to face pressure from tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump. According to The Canadian Press, Carney said Canada intends to honour its contracts and agreements while assessing whether deeper trade integration with the United States remains in the country’s best interest.
Carney made the comments in an interview with The Canadian Press as his government prepares for the scheduled review of the Canada United States Mexico Agreement. The prime minister said he rejects the idea that Canada’s natural resources should be treated as a threat or bargaining weapon, arguing instead that the focus should be on whether expanded trade benefits both countries.
His remarks come after United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer warned Canadian officials not to use energy and natural resources as leverage in trade talks. Greer said the Trump administration wants to work with Canada on energy and critical minerals development, but also made clear that Washington is focused on protecting American interests.
Carney said Canada must consider whether further integration with the United States makes sense at a time when American officials appear to view Canadian resources through the lens of leverage. He suggested Canada has other options if closer cooperation does not serve mutual interests.
The prime minister also pointed to Canada’s auto sector as an example of how closely linked the two economies have become. He warned that United States tariffs are putting that integrated market at risk and could pull apart supply chains that have long connected Canadian and American workers, plants and businesses.
Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson recently described Canada’s energy and natural resources sector as one of the country’s strongest cards in the upcoming trade discussions. Carney’s comments appear to draw a distinction between recognizing Canada’s strategic importance and threatening to cut off supply as a negotiating tactic.
Carney also reflected on his approach to dealing with Trump, saying the United States president responds best to direct communication. He said Canada’s position must be expressed respectfully but clearly, rather than hidden behind flattering or overly cautious language.
The prime minister defended former prime minister Justin Trudeau’s handling of Trump during the first negotiation of the continental trade agreement, saying the deal still stands up well. However, Carney said the political conditions in Washington have changed significantly, adding that some parts of the agreement will likely need to be updated while Canada works to protect its own interests.
