Carney Responds to Lutnick's Claims, Says Canada Ready for Trade Talks When U.S. Is
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnikk’s criticism of Ottawa for derailing trade negotiations with the United States over political reasons. During a press conference in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Carney dismissed Lutnick's comments and emphasized Canada is prepared to resume talks when the U.S. is ready. The two sides had failed to reach an agreement before Trump’s August 22 deadline for new tariffs on Canadian imports, leading both countries to impose retaliatory measures. The dispute centered around issues like language requirements in Canada and tariff relief for medium- and heavy-duty trucks from the U.S., with each side accusing the other of last-minute demands. Carney also criticized what he described as shifting red lines by the U.S. during negotiations, while President Trump expressed skepticism about rekindling relations, warning Canadian politicians that economic consequences could follow.
Topics: Political Statements Trade Negotiations U.S.-Canada Relations