Fri Mar 28 16:27:41 UTC 2025: ## US and Canada to Begin Trade Talks After Canadian Election
**OTTAWA/WASHINGTON D.C.** – Amidst escalating trade tensions, US President Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney held a “very constructive” phone call on Friday, agreeing to begin comprehensive negotiations on a new economic and security relationship after Canada’s upcoming election on April 28th.
The call marks a significant shift in tone from Trump’s previous hostile rhetoric towards Canada, which included threats of annexation. While the White House statement lacked specifics, it noted that the two leaders “agree on many things” and will meet immediately following the election.
The conversation follows a recent escalation in trade disputes, including Trump’s announcement of a 25 percent tariff on foreign cars. Prime Minister Carney immediately responded by stating Canada will implement retaliatory tariffs to protect its economy and workers. He has also publicly declared the traditional US-Canada relationship, based on deep economic integration and security cooperation, to be over.
Despite the recent friction, both leaders characterized the call as productive. Carney’s office confirmed that the leaders agreed to commence negotiations on a new bilateral relationship post-election. However, Carney underscored that Canada will not back down from its plans to impose counter-tariffs in response to the US trade actions.
The improved communication comes as Carney’s Liberal Party enjoys a surge in poll numbers, partly attributed to the leadership change and the robust Canadian response to Trump’s trade policies. The upcoming election adds an important layer of complexity to the negotiations, but both sides appear committed to finding a path towards a renewed relationship after the vote.
First Piper 