“Geography has made us neighbours. History has made us friends. The economy has made us partners. And necessity has made us allies… What binds us is far greater than what divides us. These words are those of US President John F. Kennedy and were spoken during his speech to the Canadian parliament on May 17, 1961. Kennedy’s words, which have since been inscribed at the entrance to the embassy from the United States to Ottawa, are still relevant today.
Certainly, Canada-US relations have not always been good, but the reality described by Kennedy dictates the importance of constantly working on it. The visit of the current President of the United States, Joe Biden, on March 23 and 24, is also part of this movement.
In February 2021, Biden and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau held a virtual summit themed “Roadmap for a Renewed U.S.-Canada Partnership.” This focused on economic relations, actions to fight climate change and how to pursue multilateral cooperation internationally.
In a few days, the President of the United States will speak in the Canadian parliament. Contrary to the conflictual relationship that reigned with former President Donald Trump, we can expect a climate of good understanding and cooperation.
The context
It should be noted that the relations between the two countries are close. The United States is our largest economic partner with approximately 400,000 Canadians crossing the border daily. Then, for 35 American states, Canada is the number one export market. In short, it is a relationship of close trade and highly integrated economic activities.
In 2020, Canada, the United States and Mexico signed a new free trade agreement (CUSMA), which replaced the NAFTA of 1994. The provisions of CUSMA changed certain basic rules concerning the framework of products, supply management in the dairy sector and procedures for monitoring and applying the agreement. Overall, Canada fared well despite threats and remarks from President Trump during the renegotiation.
Today, the Biden administration is cooperating, but with a protectionist rhetoric that raises concerns, and traditional disputes like softwood lumber, supply management and access to manufacturing markets are still in the game. .
Since Biden’s ascension to power in 2021, the impact and handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine and tensions with China have dominated headlines. No doubt, cooperation between Canada and the United States is part of the deal, and there is no indication that it will diminish.
The economies of both countries are performing well in terms of jobs and growth, but are suffering from the highest rate of inflation in 50 years. Of course, inflation is observable all over the world, as are supply chain issues.
What to expect
It can be expected that the discussions will prioritize issues related to security and defence, threats to democracy, actions to be taken with respect to climate change, the stability of the banking system and cooperation in economic matters in the context of Joe Biden’s “Buy America”.
Other topics will certainly be discussed. Issues related to the Arctic, in the face of the actions of Russia and China, will be at the forefront. The roles of NATO and that of NORAD will be decisive.
Access to critical minerals is increasingly becoming a key issue for Americans in the area of technology, while Canada is well positioned as a source of supply. Trudeau and Biden therefore have every interest in giving positive signals on this subject.
Immigration will also be involved. Many in Canada, and particularly in Quebec, are anticipating action regarding Roxham Road and the status of the Safe Third Country Agreement. However, it should not be forgotten that Biden has a more serious problem on the southern border of the United States. It remains to be seen whether he will demonstrate as much concern for the northern border, which is the largest land border on the planet.
There is also likely to be talk of the opioid crisis and drug trafficking issues experienced in both countries. Also, the question of the ongoing crisis in Haiti will certainly be discussed, and it can be expected that Biden will want a greater role from Canada given the presence of a large Haitian diaspora in the country.
Regardless of the results, it is certain that one can predict that the images and words surrounding the Trudeau-Biden summit will be encouraging because the two leaders know each other well.
Sure thing, each leader will defend the interests of his respective country, and particularly in the spirit of the words of JFK.