Prime Minister Mark Carney pledged on Friday to lead the most significant transformation of the Canadian economy since World War II, allowing Donald Trump to “stomp up.”
Carney guided the Liberals to a surprising fourth position in Monday’s elections, a campaign heavily centered on the threats posed by the US president to Canada’s economy and autonomy.
The Liberals have secured the 172 seats necessary for a parliamentary majority, and with 168 victories confirmed, they are well-positioned to pass laws.
At his first press conference following his win, Carney conveyed a determined tone.
Known for his meticulous choice of words, he stated his aim is “to do something great, not just anything.”
“Canadians have entrusted me with their support to enact significant changes quickly, and I will work diligently to honor that trust,” he remarked.
He pointed out that the historical friendship and trading relationship with the US is his “immediate priority” and announced plans to visit Washington next Tuesday for talks with Trump concerning trade and security matters.
Carney expressed his intention to “stand up to President Trump” and operate “with focus and determination.”
“We’ll concentrate on both the immediate trade pressures and the broader future of economic and security relations between our two nations,” he explained.
However, he cautioned against expecting any “white smoke” confirmation of a breakthrough from their first meeting.
Carney reiterated a theme of his campaign, asserting that the previous relationship between the two North American neighbors had effectively ended “due to the continued consolidation.”
“The real question now is how we will collaborate moving forward,” he added.
He noted that Trump “respects strength,” which is why he is gearing Canada up for meaningful changes.
The Conservatives, acting as the primary opposition, alongside the Bloc Québécois, the third-largest party in Parliament, are both seeking unity following the election.
Having previously led the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, Carney committed to keeping tariffs on American goods as long as US measures remain in effect.
– “Economic Destiny” –
Carney remarked, “This will be a thrilling time as we steer our economic destiny and develop a new Canadian economy.”
To facilitate this, he pledged to eliminate existing trade barriers between Canadian provinces by July 1 and to bolster trade with “trusted allies.”
“Canada has what the world needs, and we are safeguarding the values that are respected globally,” he asserted.
He also announced that the new minority liberal government would be in place by May 12, with Parliament reconvening on May 26.
As Canada remains a Commonwealth nation, Carney stated he would deliver an opening speech in front of King Charles III.
“This is a historic honor that aligns perfectly with our times,” he stated.
He emphasized that it “clearly demonstrates our nation’s sovereignty,” directly referencing Trump’s desire to create a situation where Canada would be a 51st American state.
The traditional speeches marking the opening of a new Canadian Parliament session are typically delivered by the governor, who acts as the representative of the nation’s monarch.
