Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has called for national unity in a speech addressing domestic economic challenges and responding to international pressures, particularly from the United States, while subtly countering U.S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about Canada’s dependence.
In his first address on home soil after delivering a pointed warning at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Carney spoke at La Citadelle, a historic military fortress in Quebec City, symbolizing resilience against external threats. He emphasized the need for Canadians to unite as his government pursues ambitious plans to bolster the economy amid global turmoil, pledging to move ‘fairly and fast’ on infrastructure projects and trade agreements to tackle issues like the cost-of-living crisis.
The speech included a direct rebuttal to Trump, who had asserted in Davos that ‘Canada lives because of the United States.’ Carney acknowledged the deep partnership between the two nations but firmly stated, ‘Canada doesn’t live because of the United States. Canada thrives because we are Canadians,’ defending national sovereignty and pride. This response highlighted ongoing tensions in U.S.-Canada relations, especially with trade deals like the USMCA under renegotiation.
Carney’s remarks built on themes from his Davos presentation, where he warned of a ‘rupture’ in the rules-based international order and urged middle powers to resist economic coercion by greater powers. Back in Canada, he tailored his message to domestic concerns, addressing internal divisions such as potential sovereignty referendums in Alberta and Quebec by stressing that unity is essential for national growth and inclusivity.
Internationally, Carney’s stance has drawn mixed reactions. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum praised his Davos speech as ‘in tune with current times,’ but U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick criticized it as ‘political marketing’ and accused Canada of arrogance. These contrasts underscore the delicate balance Carney must strike between asserting Canadian values and maintaining crucial trade relationships, particularly with the Trump administration.
Domestically, opposition Conservatives have challenged Carney to translate his words into concrete actions, criticizing what they see as a focus on international diplomacy over pressing homegrown issues. Despite this, polling suggests that approximately half of Canadians approve of his government, indicating a polarized but engaged public as his Liberal Party, holding a narrow minority, prepares for the upcoming parliamentary session.
Carney’s speech also reflected on Canada’s historical journey towards cooperation, acknowledging past injustices against Indigenous peoples while calling for continued progress towards fairness and justice. He framed the current moment as one where Canada must be a ‘beacon to a world that’s at sea,’ advocating for a proactive role in shaping a more stable global order.
Looking forward, the address sets the stage for Carney’s cabinet retreat and legislative agenda, where he will need to navigate both internal unity and external pressures. His vision emphasizes swift economic execution, strengthened trade with non-U.S. allies, and a firm stance on Canadian independence, positioning the country at a critical juncture in its domestic and international relations.
