On March 17, 2025, Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney, during his first official foreign visit to Paris, stated that Canada must “reinforce its ties” with “reliable allies like France.” This comment comes amid strained relations with the United States under President Donald Trump, who has imposed tariffs on Canadian goods and made provocative remarks about Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state. Carney’s visit to France, followed by planned stops in the UK and Nunavut, underscores his strategy to diversify Canada’s trade and security partnerships. In Paris, he met with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss strengthening economic, commercial, and defense ties, leveraging frameworks like the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement. Carney’s emphasis on “reliable allies” reflects a pivot away from dependence on the U.S., especially as Trump’s policies threaten Canada’s economy, which sends over 75% of its exports south. This move signals Canada’s intent to bolster its global position and sovereignty in a shifting geopolitical landscape.
