OTTAWA, May 2 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans to travel to Washington on May 6 for a meeting with President Donald Trump. During the recent election campaign, Carney criticized Trump for his actions against Canada.
Trump has raised the prospect of annexing Canada and has imposed tariffs on certain Canadian products. Carney has condemned these actions as a betrayal and has expressed interest in discussing new security and defense partnerships.
"The traditional relationship of increasing integration between our nations is no longer viable. We must now determine how to collaborate in the future and chart a new path forward for Canada," stated Carney during a press conference on May 2.
As a former central banker with experience in crisis management, Carney believes he is well-equipped to engage with Trump. The Liberal party, which faced challenges in the polls earlier this year, emerged victorious in Monday's election.
Carney also emphasized the need for Canada to diversify its trade partners, reducing its reliance on the United States, which currently accounts for 75% of Canadian exports.