Mark Carney, the newly appointed Prime Minister of Canada, arrived in Paris on Monday for his first official foreign visit since taking office on March 14. This trip marks a significant step in Carney’s diplomatic efforts, as he seeks support from key European allies in the face of escalating tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump. Carney’s first destination, Paris, reflects Canada’s deep historical ties with France, a connection Carney emphasized during his swearing-in ceremony. His visit to France will be followed by a trip to London, where he plans to meet with U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and King Charles III.
Carney’s First Foreign Trip Strengthens Canada’s Ties with France and the United Kingdom
Carney’s choice to visit Paris and London on his first foreign trip highlights Canada’s historical and cultural ties with both France and the United Kingdom. During his swearing-in ceremony, Carney stressed the importance of these relationships, noting that Canada’s foundation is built upon the contributions of French, English, and Indigenous peoples.
This underscores Canada’s distinct identity from the United States, a sentiment Carney reinforced with his firm statement that Canada would “never, ever” become part of the U.S. These visits are intended to strengthen Canada’s diplomatic ties with two of its most important historical allies while asserting Canada’s sovereignty.
Carney Bolsters Canada’s European Alliances as Tensions With Trump IntensifyCarney’s foreign tour comes at a time of heightened tensions between Canada and the United States, particularly with President Trump. Since taking office, Trump has imposed tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum and has made frequent remarks about turning Canada into the 51st U.S. state.
These actions have sparked widespread outrage in Canada, leading to calls for boycotts of U.S. products. Trump’s threat to impose additional tariffs on all Canadian products has further strained the relationship, prompting Carney to focus on building stronger ties with European powers as a counterbalance to U.S. pressure.
Carney Meets Macron in Paris, Emphasizing Canada’s Sovereignty and Historical Ties with Europe
During his visit to Paris, Carney will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron, though no joint news conference is expected, indicating Macron’s careful stance regarding his relationship with Trump. Carney will also visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral before traveling to Canada’s Arctic region to reaffirm the country’s sovereignty over its northern territories.
This trip underscores Canada’s strong connection to the Arctic, as well as its enduring ties to both the U.K. and France. McGill University political science professor Daniel Béland pointed out the distinct historical and institutional differences between Canada and the U.S., emphasizing that Canada’s relationship with the U.K. is rooted in peaceful constitutional traditions.
Prime Minister Carney, who recently celebrated his 60th birthday, has indicated that he is prepared to engage in dialogue with President Trump—provided the discussions respect Canada’s sovereignty. While Carney does not plan to visit Washington immediately, he is hopeful for a phone call with Trump soon.
His government is also re-evaluating the purchase of U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets in light of the ongoing trade conflict. Meanwhile, Carney has been in contact with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and invited him to the upcoming G7 summit in Canada. The timing of Carney’s trip coincides with domestic political developments, as the governing Liberal Party, facing a potential electoral defeat, may benefit from the heightened national unity spurred by tensions with the U.S.