Mark Carney's Bold Message to Trump: Choosing Europe for First Foreign Trip as UK Prime Minister

Mark Carney Canada’s newly appointed Prime Minister deviated from convention on Monday by choosing to travel to Europe instead of the United States for his inaugural international visit as the nation’s head. The cordial reception he received in both France and the UK underscored the increasing tensions between Canada and its American counterpart to the south.

Upon his arrival in Paris, Carney was greeted warmly by President Emmanuel Macron. He then proceeded to London, where he held meetings with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and also had a private meeting with King Charles III, who serves as the head of state for both the United Kingdom and Canada.

Switching between French and English at a joint news conference at the Élysée Palace, Carney – who took office on Friday and is known to many European leaders for his years as a central banker — informed Macron that Canada is "the most European country outside Europe" and assured him of being a "dependable, trustworthy, and robust partner" for Paris.

Macron commended Canada for standing "shoulder-to-shoulder" with France and Europe, stating about Carney: “We’re happy to welcome a friend, and we’re receiving you with great delight.”

Carney’s welcoming response from European countries occurs against a backdrop where Canada-US relations have reached an all-time low in recent history—prompting Canada to consider restructuring its partnerships. Following his return to the White House, Trump has imposed harsh economic sanctions on Canada through tariffs, suggested that Canada ought to be part of the US as its 51st state, and frequently demeaned Carney’s former counterpart, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, often addressing him as "governor" instead during his tenure.

Following his discussion with King Charles, Carney characterized Trump’s proposal to annex Canada as both "unimaginable" and "insensitive." He also stated that the U.S. president should cease making these remarks before they engage in talks regarding their more comprehensive alliance.

He revealed that the nation was reassessing the plan to buy F-35 fighter jets from the U.S., and mentioned having discussions with representatives from both the UK and France regarding strengthening security, military, and economic relationships.

Nevertheless, he indicated his willingness to converse with Washington, stating that Canada was interested in discussing the comprehensive commercial and security partnership between their two countries.

"When the United States decides to engage in that discussion, we're fully prepared to join them," Carney stated in London.

Boosted by Trump threats

Carney – who has previously never occupied a public position in Canada – will head the Liberal Party in the upcoming federal election in the country, which is scheduled for later this year.

Prior to Trump regaining control, Canada’s Liberal Party – who had been governing for almost ten years – seemed devoid of vitality and fresh concepts. Polls indicated they were likely headed towards significant losses against the Conservatives, under the dynamic leadership of Pierre Poilievre.

However, Trump’s threats against Canada’s economy and national autonomy have sparked a remarkable resurgence among the Liberals, making the upcoming election much more fiercely contested than it appeared to be only a few weeks prior.

This week, Carney has communicated with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding Russia's conflict in Ukraine, as well as with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen concerning EU strategies to finance Europe's armaments amid diminishing and unreliable US military backing.

During Monday's press briefing in Paris, Carney praised Macron as an "action-oriented leader" who has assisted Europe through its security challenges.

“In the midst of a crisis one must act. Unfortunately, we are in the middle of an economic and geopolitical crisis. But when you take action you have to have values: sovereignty, solidarity, dynamism and sustainability. These values are close to our hearts,” Carney said.

In London, Carney said he had invited Zelensky to the G7 summit that Canada is hosting in Alberta this year.

Carney is a familiar face to many in the United Kingdom, having served as governor of the Bank of England from 2013 to 2020, overseeing its protracted recovery from the 2008 financial crisis and leaving on the cusp of the Covid-19 pandemic.

At that time, Carney faced criticism from certain quarters – notably those on the political right – for his repeated warnings that exiting the European Union would harm Britain’s economy.

Max Foster and Max Saltman from gudangmovies21 provided additional reporting.

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