BANFF, Alta.–As G7 leaders gather in Alberta for their annual summit, U.S. President Donald Trump signalled a trade deal with Canada could be reached in the coming days or weeks, provided both sides find common ground.
Trump made the comments when speaking to reporters after a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney on the morning of June 16. Trump said trade with Canada would be among the key topics discussed at the summit. “I think we are going to accomplish a lot,” Trump said. “I think our primary focus will be trade, and trade with Canada, and I’m sure we can work something out.” When asked if a potential deal could be reached within days or weeks, Trump said “it’s achievable,” while noting that “both parties have to agree.” Asked what is preventing the two nations from reaching a deal, the president pointed to the “different concepts” he and Carney hold. “I have a tariff concept; Mark has a different concept, which is something that some people like, but we are going to see if we can get to the bottom of it today,” Trump said. The president said he has always been a “tariff person,” because “it’s simple, it’s easy, it’s precise, and it just goes very quickly.” He said Carney has a “more complex idea, but also very good,” and that they would look at both ideas to evaluate a potential agreement. The meeting between Trump and Carney took place just before G7 leaders convened for their official welcome to the summit, which is taking place in Kananaskis, Alta., until June 17.
