On March 17, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney embarked on his first official foreign trip, conducting high-profile meetings with key European leaders aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties amid rising tensions from the United States, particularly under President Donald Trump.
Carney's day began at Buckingham Palace, where he had the honor of meeting King Charles III. Notably, during this meeting, Carney humorously explained to the King why he was not wearing his Order of Canada pin—he had accidentally broken it upon arrival. King Charles offered to lend Carney his pin, but the Prime Minister declined, emphasizing his own status.
This trip, which also included stops in Paris and Iqaluit, marks Carney's first foreign engagement since he was sworn in as Prime Minister just three days prior, on March 14, 2025. He was greeted warmly by King Charles, celebrating not only his new role but also his past as the first non-British governor of the Bank of England.
Later, Carney flew to Paris to meet French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palais de l'Élysée. The two leaders discussed the importance of enhancing the Canada-France relationship, especially during these times of geopolitical uncertainty. "We must strengthen our diplomatic ties to address a world that's increasingly unstable and dangerous," Carney asserted, underlining Canada's ambitions to stand firm alongside reliable allies.
Macron reciprocated Carney's sentiments, emphasizing the significance of fair trade and international cooperation, stating, "We believe fair trade... is good for everyone's prosperity." Their discussions also included topics such as the fallout from U.S. policies and the need for collective action against rising tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.
Returning to London, Carney met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, focusing on enhancing Canada-UK relations. The two prime ministers discussed strengthening economic partnerships and security ties, mapping out opportunities to expand the Canada-UK trade corridor. According to reports from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), their dialogue reinforced the need for solidarity on issues affecting both nations, particularly the crises stemming from Russian aggression against Ukraine.
Starmer remarked, "The leaders highlighted transatlantic security and the trade and investment relationship between Canada and the UK," signaling the renewed commitment to collaboration between the nations.
With looming threats from Trump, who has signaled potential tariffs on all Canadian products effective April 2, 2025, Carney's visit serves as both reassurance to European allies and a protective measure for Canada's economic interests. Carney has stated his intent to approach any discussions with Trump with respect, emphasizing the necessity to redefine the Canada-U.S. relationship on fair grounds, free from threats of political annexation.
Following his European engagements, Carney is set to visit Iqaluit to display support for the Arctic region, signaling his commitment to all parts of Canada. This trip is not just symbolic of bridging relations with European allies but also highlights Carney's dedication to his domestic responsibilities at such a precarious time.
The backdrop of rising parliamentary support for Carney's leadership indicated positive sentiment as he plans to call for the next federal election soon after returning from Europe. Under his direction, the Liberals have gained traction, reflecting potential political shifts close to home.
Overall, Mark Carney's inaugural international trip reaffirms Canada's commitment to its allies and aims to stabilize relationships across the Atlantic, particularly emphasizing the importance of trade partnerships as they navigate through shifts prompted by the aggressive policies of the Trump administration. Carney’s focused initiatives and discussions during this pressing time showcase not only his leadership but also the proactive stance of Canada on the global stage.
