Canadian and Mexican Leaders Forge Stronger Ties Ahead of USMCA Review
During a pivotal meeting in Mexico City, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum committed to enhancing cooperation in trade and security as they approach a critical review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) with Washington, reports 24brussels.
This meeting marks Carney’s first bilateral visit to Mexico in eight years. At a joint press conference, both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to stronger ties and maintaining their trilateral partnership with the United States amidst escalating tensions due to U.S. President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade war.
Sheinbaum stated, “Mexico and Canada will continue walking together, with mutual respect and with a certainty that cooperation is the path to overcome any challenge.” Carney underscored the significance of Canada-Mexico trade, referring to North America as the “economic envy of the world.” He expressed confidence that both nations can effectively address the necessary adjustments to bolster regional competitiveness.
Both leaders emphasized they are not in competition for the favor of Washington, even as they pursue separate negotiations with Trump. Carney noted, “We will move forward together.” Tensions have risen recently, particularly following Trump’s imposition of significant tariffs: 50 percent on Canadian steel and 25 percent on Mexican pharmaceuticals, along with an additional 25 percent “fentanyl tariff” aimed at addressing drug trafficking issues.
The political climate has also been charged, with Trump suggesting Canada should become the 51st state of the U.S. and issuing an executive order to rename the “Gulf of Mexico” as the “Gulf of America.” In August, reports emerged of a secret order authorizing potential U.S. military action against Mexican cartels. Responding to such speculations, Sheinbaum asserted, “There will be no invasion of Mexico.”
Despite the prevailing tensions, economic relationships between the countries remain deeply intertwined. The United States is the primary trading partner for both Mexico and Canada, with Mexico and Canada serving as the first and second-largest partners to Washington, respectively. In 2024, bilateral trade between Mexico and Canada amounted to $40.5 billion, contrasted with a staggering $924.4 billion in trade between Canada and the U.S.
Officials accompanying Carney reflected on the strong relationship with Mexico while acknowledging opportunities for even closer cooperation as the USMCA review looms. Both nations are signaling their intent to work more collaboratively in navigating relations with Washington moving forward.
