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Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has declared the recent trip by Canada’s premiers to Washington, D.C., a success, despite the ongoing threat of significant tariffs on Canadian imports by the U.S. government. Kinew, who participated in the two-day visit, engaged in discussions with key figures, including U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, a former governor of North Dakota.
Kinew emphasized that Burgum’s awareness of Manitoba and Canadian affairs may provide Manitoba with a valuable connection within the current U.S. administration. The opportunity to connect with a prominent member of President Donald Trump’s team was seen as beneficial.
During the visit, Kinew and fellow premiers reportedly had an impromptu conversation with Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and a high-profile advisor to Trump. Nevertheless, the U.S. president has remained steadfast in his position regarding tariffs, reiterating that Canada should consider integration as a state.
Kinew highlighted that the meetings were a pivotal chance to create a solid first impression with the new U.S. administration. He underscored Canada’s commitment to addressing American concerns around critical issues like border security and drug trafficking.
“It is crucial for Manitoba and Canada to establish a presence early on, as this is not merely about immediate outcomes but about shaping the next four years,” Kinew stated in a media call. He aimed to instill confidence in Manitobans and Canadians regarding their capabilities to navigate complex international relations.
The engagements included discussions with members of Congress, focusing on the significance of trade across various sectors, such as agriculture and manufacturing. Kinew’s remarks reflect an eagerness to maintain strong economic ties amid challenging diplomatic circumstances.
Source
globalnews.ca