Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has unveiled plans for the most ambitious economic transformation in Canada since World War II, aiming to shield the country from the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies.
At his first press conference following the Liberal Party’s federal election win on Monday, Carney emphasized the urgency and scale of the changes ahead. “I’m in politics to do great things—not just to hold office,” he said. “Canadians have given me a mandate to act boldly and quickly, and I intend to deliver.”
Though the Liberals fell just three seats short of a parliamentary majority, securing 169 out of 172 required seats, Carney remains well-positioned to push legislation forward. A recount that shifted a seat from Quebec to Ontario has further bolstered his standing.
Carney listed Canada’s tense relationship with the United States—its top trading partner and longtime ally—as a top priority. He confirmed plans to travel to Washington next Tuesday for talks with President Trump, focusing on trade and security.
“Canadians expect me to stand up to President Trump,” he said. “We’ll move forward with clarity and resolve.”
He cautioned against expecting immediate breakthroughs, warning, “There will be no white smoke after one meeting. Trump respects strength. Canada must now carve its own path.”
As part of this shift, Carney declared the end of deepening economic integration with the U.S., calling for a more self-reliant Canadian economy. Key immediate actions include upholding counter-tariffs on American imports as long as U.S. tariffs remain and eliminating inter-provincial trade barriers by July 1.
“This is an exciting new chapter,” Carney said. “We’re reclaiming control over our economic future and building a new Canadian economy.”
He also emphasized deepening partnerships with like-minded global allies: “Canada has what the world needs—and we stand for values the world respects.”
Carney’s cabinet will be announced the week of May 12, with Parliament set to reconvene on May 26. In a symbolic first, King Charles III will deliver the opening address—traditionally handled by the Governor General—marking what Carney called “a historic honour befitting this pivotal moment.”
He added, “This is a clear statement of our sovereignty,” a subtle retort to past Trump comments suggesting Canada could be absorbed as the 51st U.S. state.
