Carney political career was built in part on a promise to take a tough stance on the US.
After trade talks suddenly collapsed last month, the two countries have imposed tit-for-tat tariffs and been embroiled in a war of words. There are no signs formal trade talks will resume anytime soon.
On Tuesday, new US tariffs came into effect on a number of Canadian goods while some others were lifted, and bans on goods like alcohol and motorcycles are due to be imposed next week.
But the prime minister made clear that the relationship wasn’t over, addressing the American executives in Toronto directly.
“To our American friends, let me say this. We will always be neighbours, and Canada will continue to be the US’s most important partner in many key areas,” he said.
“After all, even at times of disagreement during our long history, we have always maintained deep ties.”
