OTTAWA – Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to convene a meeting with Canada's premiers in Ottawa on January 29, 2026, in light of increasing global tensions and ongoing trade discussions with the United States that have yet to yield positive results.
A government official has confirmed that this meeting will take place after an official dinner hosted by Carney for the provincial and territorial leaders on the evening of January 28. This gathering marks a crucial opportunity for first ministers to strategize and coordinate efforts to strengthen Canada’s economy amidst the challenges posed by trade policies.
The premiers have been conducting regular virtual meetings to establish a unified approach to address economic issues and assist industries that have been adversely impacted by tariffs imposed by the U.S. government under President Donald Trump. Sectors such as steel, aluminum, and softwood lumber have faced significant hurdles, making the collaboration between federal and provincial leaders imperative at this juncture.
In addition to economic concerns, the premiers are placing a strong emphasis on advancing major infrastructure projects that are essential for Canada’s long-term development. They are also preparing for upcoming discussions to reassess the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Trade Agreement (CUSMA) amidst the backdrop of strained trade relations.
Prime Minister Carney has announced that Dominic LeBlanc, the Minister in charge of Canada-U.S. relations, will engage with U.S. counterparts in mid-January to formally initiate negotiations regarding CUSMA. This development highlights the government's commitment to revitalizing trade ties with its southern neighbor, critical for economic growth.
The first ministers’ meeting coincides with the Conservative Party of Canada's political convention in Calgary, which will span three days. During this convention, party leader Pierre Poilievre will undergo an automatic leadership review, a consequence of the party's performance in the previous year's federal election.
As preparations unfold for these significant meetings, the atmosphere reflects a mix of urgency and anticipation, as both federal and provincial leaders aim to address complex challenges while navigating an increasingly volatile global landscape.
This meeting serves as a crucial platform for dialogue among Canada’s political leaders, aimed at fostering unity and promoting collaborative efforts that will ultimately benefit the country’s economic standing and international relations.
