On Friday, local time (October 23), U.S. President Donald Trump said in a interview at the White House that Canada is trying to reach a trade agreement with the United States. He said, "Canada is working hard to reach an agreement with us. Although I don’t want to say it this way, we have all the cards in our hands."
He also sent optimistic signals regarding North American trade negotiations. When asked about the progress towards reaching an agreement with Mexico, Trump said that the two sides were “very close” to reaching a “very good” agreement.
The Canadian government has not responded to this matter yet. Hours before Trump made his remarks, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed at a press conference in Istanbul on Friday that Canada is still in contact with the U.S. government and is willing to negotiate in good faith to reach a trade agreement that benefits both parties.
He also emphasized that the Canadian side is concerned about the interests of Canadians, not the timing of reaching an agreement.
He said, “If the United States is ready, we can sign the agreement this afternoon. If it must wait for several months or even longer, or until another government reaches a suitable agreement, we will do so as well.”
When asked whether a breakthrough could be achieved before the U.S. midterm elections, Carney said that if the U.S. is ready for sincere negotiations, Canada is willing to “put everything aside” and proceed with discussions. However, whether an agreement can be reached before the elections depends on the U.S., and the U.S. situation is “somewhat unpredictable.”
