Minister Joly Engages in Productive Dialogue with Republican Senators in Washington

November 21, 2024 TruthUSA

Ottawa’s strategy to engage with the upcoming U.S. administration progressed this week as Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly held meetings with Republican politicians during her visit to Washington.

Following her visit, Joly disclosed that she had discussions with “numerous” senators, focusing on topics such as the trade relationship between the two countries, shared borders, and Arctic foreign policy.

Joly emphasized that Ottawa has a well-thought-out plan for interactions with the incoming administration, stressing the importance of maintaining open lines of communication as the first step.

Joly highlighted that the senators she met with emphasized the crucial nature of the trade partnership with Canada. They also acknowledged Canada’s efforts to safeguard its market against Chinese trade practices through national security measures.

“Based on these discussions, I believe we are making positive progress, but we will continue to engage,” stated the minister.

The use of Mexico as a hub for Chinese products entering North America has prompted U.S. President-elect Donald Trump to seek renegotiation of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico free trade deal (CUSMA).

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also stated last week that there are concerns regarding Chinese investment in Mexico that require attention.

In August, Ottawa took action to address the issue of Chinese overcapacity by imposing tariffs of 25 percent on Chinese steel and aluminum, along with 100 tariffs on electric vehicles made in China, following a similar move by the U.S. earlier.

Canada may also seek protection from tariffs under the new U.S. administration, considering Trump’s previous statements about imposing 10 percent tariffs on U.S. imports. During his first term, Trump imposed tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum, leading to retaliation from Ottawa, with the issue being resolved almost a year later.

When asked by reporters about expectations for Canada receiving an exemption from Trump’s proposed tariffs, Joly expressed confidence in the strong trading relationship between Canada and the U.S., pointing out Trump’s recent selection of Pete Hoekstra as the U.S. ambassador to Canada.

Joly mentioned her discussions with various U.S. senators, including Republican Senators Rick Scott, Lindsay Graham, and Lisa Murkowski, who all recognized the significance of the Canada-U.S. trade relationship in Trump’s choice of Hoekstra. The foreign minister also highlighted Trump’s recognition of the strength of CUSMA negotiated under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, emphasizing the importance of adhering to this critical trade agreement.

Hoekstra served as ambassador to the Netherlands during the previous Trump administration and has longstanding experience as a House representative in Congress.

“In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST,” Trump stated when announcing Hoekstra’s appointment.

Joly also mentioned her upcoming meetings with other senators, including Republican Jim Risch, at the Halifax International Security Forum starting on November 22.

Source link