Ahead of the meeting, premiers made it clear they were feeling a “new sense of urgency” and wanted to know Ottawa’s negotiation plan. Ontario Premier Doug Ford said he hoped to hear a “strong” plan, emphasizing the need for a “Team Canada” approach. “It’s very hard to deal with President Trump when he changes his mind every single day,” Ford said. The premier’s comments reflect the challenges of negotiating with an administration that has shown willingness to use tariffs as a leverage point in trade disputes.
Despite differences in their approaches to retaliation, the premiers have emphasized that they are united in their opposition to the U.S. tariffs. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she thinks Canada has “a window” over the next month to “sharpen the pencil, to sharpen the focus” in negotiations. Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe said he is feeling “positive and bullish” that the two sides can reach an agreement in the short term, though he acknowledged he is not entirely confident that they will. The premiers’ comments reflect a cautious optimism that a deal can be reached, while also acknowledging the significant challenges that remain.
Prime Minister Carney drew a parallel to the predicament the Fathers of Confederation found themselves in 162 years ago when they gathered in the same city, facing the threat of American invasion due to limitations in trade and infrastructure. “We face in some respects, many similar challenges … but we have many more advantages,” Carney said, citing Canada’s diversity, prosperity, and focus. “And we have the lessons of history. And the core lesson of history is that when Team Canada is united, there is nothing that you can’t do”. The prime minister’s words reflect his confidence in the country’s ability to meet the current challenges.
