Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Friday that he is convening a Cabinet Committee meeting to address Canada’s relationship with the United States in light of President Donald Trump’s recent tariff decisions. Carney framed the meeting as part of an "ongoing response" to protect Canadian interests amid what he described as the "biggest crisis of our lifetimes."

“Our government is focused on supporting Canadians during this crisis. That's how we keep Canada strong,” Carney wrote in a post on X, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the situation. The emergency Cabinet session comes amid heightened trade tensions between the two allies, following Trump's move to impose reciprocal tariffs on multiple countries, including Canada.

Earlier this week, President Trump announced a 90-day pause on the new reciprocal tariffs, a move Carney welcomed as a "reprieve to the global economy." However, the Canadian leader insisted that longer-term solutions are necessary and reiterated his intention to begin formal trade negotiations with Trump’s administration immediately after Canada’s federal election, scheduled for April 28.

Carney has positioned his government’s approach as one of proactive engagement and resilience. The planned negotiations will aim to stabilize economic relations and potentially carve out exemptions or revised terms to mitigate the impact on Canadian industries.

The announcement reflects Canada’s broader strategy to respond swiftly and assertively to U.S. trade actions while maintaining dialogue. As economic and political stakes rise, both governments face increasing pressure from domestic and international stakeholders to find a balanced resolution.