Mark Carney was inaugurated as the Prime Minister of Canada on Friday, succeeding Justin Trudeau. In his first statements, he expressed openness to collaborating with U.S. President Donald Trump while distancing himself from Trudeau's past standoffish relationship with Trump. Carney, aged 59, emphasized a different approach, stating, "We respect President Trump... but he knows, and I know... that we can find mutual solutions that win for both."
Carney began reshaping his cabinet, focusing on relations with the U.S. by reducing ministerial positions and appointing officials such as Francois-Philippe Champagne as the new Finance Minister. He quickly acted on his promise to eliminate the consumer carbon tax, stating, "This will make a difference to hard-pressed Canadians."
As an unconventional leader without significant political experience, Carney is scheduled to visit London and Paris to strengthen European alliances amid strained relations with the U.S. He is expected to call a snap election soon, prompting preparations within his government and anticipation of a closely contested race against the Conservative Party.
Carney firmly declared Canada's independence from any U.S. annexation plans: "We will never, ever in any way, shape or form, be part of the United States." This commitment sets the tone for his leadership as he navigates the complex political landscape, aiming to secure support in the upcoming election while maintaining stability during this transitional period.