PARIS — Prime Minister Mark Carney is currently in Paris, France, where he is scheduled to meet with President Emmanuel Macron for his first in-person engagement with an international leader since assuming the role of prime minister. This visit marks a significant milestone for Carney as he embarks on his inaugural full week in office.
Carney, who recently turned 60 on Sunday, is initiating a three-day diplomatic trip that will also take him to the United Kingdom, concluding in Canada’s northern territory, Iqaluit. This visit follows an invitation extended by President Macron even before Carney was sworn in, showcasing the importance of Canada-France relations.
During their discussions, Carney and Macron are expected to address critical issues such as security in Europe and Canada and the need for trade diversification. One major point of contention is France’s delay in ratifying the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), which is Canada’s free trade deal with the European Union. Additionally, negotiations regarding an independent free trade agreement between Canada and the United Kingdom are currently stalled.
The itinerary for Carney's visit includes a tour of the newly renovated Notre Dame Cathedral, which highlights France’s cultural significance and the ongoing restoration efforts after the catastrophic fire in 2019. Following his time in Paris, Carney will travel to London, where he has arranged discussions with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and a private meeting with King Charles III.
This diplomatic engagement occurs amidst heightened political tension, particularly with U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial rhetoric about Canada potentially becoming the 51st state and his administration's aggressive tariff policies. In response to these threats, Carney has expressed confidence in Canada's sovereignty, stating, "We’re masters in our own home." He affirmed that while it is reassuring to receive positive acknowledgment from allies, Canada is not actively seeking such validations from others.
Carney emphasized the foundational elements of Canadian identity, highlighting the country’s roots in Indigenous, French, and British cultures. He also engaged with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a call on Sunday, extending an invitation for him to attend the upcoming G7 summit that Canada is set to host this summer.
Despite these international discussions, Carney has yet to establish a direct line of communication with President Trump since succeeding Justin Trudeau just a few days prior. It is anticipated that any dialogue with the U.S. president will not occur until Carney returns to Ottawa. Additionally, during his diplomatic outreach, Carney held a conversation with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen that also focused on trade and defense matters between Canada and the European Union.
The ongoing diplomatic efforts reflect Carney's commitment to strengthening Canada's international relationships while addressing pressing economic and security issues. As he navigates this complex global landscape, the outcomes of his meetings with Macron and Starmer will likely have lasting implications for Canada’s role on the world stage.
This report was first published on March 17, 2025.
