Canada Aims for Economic Resilience Amid Trade Tensions with the U.S.

TORONTO (AP) — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on September 15, 2026, that Canada plans to emerge from its trade tensions with the United States as a more resilient and independent economy. Carney indicated that Ottawa is willing to wait for favorable conditions rather than hastily negotiate a deal with Washington. "And to our American friends, let me say this. We will always be neighbors," Carney told attendees at the Canada Investment Summit in Toronto. He emphasized the importance of engaging as "true partners that respect each other's traditions and sovereignty." Carney announced that the Canadian government will seek private investment through long-term concessions to operate the country's four largest airports while maintaining public ownership of the land and assets, a plan that could generate tens of billions of dollars for reinvestment in infrastructure. He indirectly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump's trade policies, which he described as increasingly transactional and zero-sum. Carney stated, "Our reputation — as a reliable, predictable partner — has rarely been more valuable in a world where transactions are replacing relationships, and zero-sum is favored over win-win." He noted that about 80% of trade with the U.S. remains tariff-free and expressed optimism for a mutually beneficial arrangement in the future. Trade discussions between Canada and the U.S. recently stalled, leading to the imposition of 50% tariffs on approximately $20 billion in Canadian goods by the U.S., which prompted retaliatory measures from Canada. Carney remarked that Canada cannot base its strategy on a return to previous relations, stating, "We know that nostalgia is not a strategy." He also humorously contrasted a ceremonial key he received from his hometown with a box of gold keys given to him by Trump, highlighting the complexities of the U.S.-Canada relationship. Carney is scheduled to address the European Parliament later in the day.