France Canada's new Prime Minister Carney seeks to close ranks in Europe

SDA

17.3.2025 - 16:50

Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney (l) is greeted by French President Emmanuel Macron as he arrives at the Elysée Palace. Photo: Sean Kilpatrick/Canadian Press via ZUMA Press/dpa - ATTENTION: For editorial use only and only with full attribution to the above credit
Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney (l) is greeted by French President Emmanuel Macron as he arrives at the Elysée Palace. Photo: Sean Kilpatrick/Canadian Press via ZUMA Press/dpa - ATTENTION: For editorial use only and only with full attribution to the above credit
Keystone

Against the backdrop of serious trade disputes with the USA, Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney has chosen France as the destination for his first trip abroad.

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In Paris, Carney made a fundamental reminder to those involved in politics: "When you take action, you have to have values." Sovereignty, solidarity and consistency are values that unite Canada and France, said the 60-year-old at a reception hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron.

Former Canadian central bank governor and Liberal Carney was officially sworn in as Prime Minister of Canada on Friday, succeeding Justin Trudeau, who stepped down - and now has to deal with US President Donald Trump's aggressive tariff policy and threats of annexation.

The fact that he is making his first trip abroad to Europe - and not to the USA like many of his predecessors - is also seen as a signal to Washington. "We know that economic cooperation, not confrontation, enables us to build strong economies," said Carney.

Visit to Paris as a "promising symbol"

The Prime Minister also emphasized that we stand for sovereignty and security, as demonstrated by our constant support for Ukraine in its fight against the Russian war of aggression.

"Today, as we see these principles being rejected by more and more governments around the world, it is more important than ever for Canada to strengthen its relationship with our trusted allies like France." The visit to Paris is a promising symbol for the future.

Macron was honored by the inaugural visit and emphasized that it showed the importance of the enormous common challenges. Canada is a unique friend.