President-elect Donald Trump is scheduled to have dinner with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago on Friday evening. The meeting is expected to include some members of Trudeau's Cabinet as well. Trudeau is set to depart shortly after the dinner.
This meeting comes in the wake of Trump's recent announcement of significant tariff increases on goods from Mexico and Canada, with a proposed 25% tariff on all products sent to the US. Trudeau emphasized the importance of understanding that Trump intends to follow through on such statements, expressing concerns about the potential negative impact on both Canadian and American citizens.
Trudeau stated that he anticipates productive discussions with Trump and aims to address mutual concerns and issues. Attendees at the dinner include North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Florida Rep. Mike Waltz, and Trump transition co-chair Howard Lutnick, among others.
Trump's proposed tariffs could disrupt supply chains and industries reliant on goods from close trading partners. The US and Canada have had a sometimes strained relationship on trade matters, with Trump previously using tariffs during negotiations over the North American Free Trade Agreement.
It remains unclear how Trump plans to implement the proposed tariffs without violating the USMCA trade agreement. Trump recently spoke with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum regarding the tariffs, with conflicting statements emerging about the call and potential border closures.
President Biden has criticized Trump's tariff proposal as counterproductive and warned of potential negative impacts on US relationships with Canada and Mexico. The situation continues to evolve as discussions between the US and its North American neighbors progress.
