Ambassador Hillman sees a clear path to a Canada-U.S. trade deal by July 21 as both sides navigate tariffs, defence, and economic stability.
Optimism Amid Trade Deadlock
Canada’s ambassador to the U.S., Kirsten Hillman, says there’s a “good path forward” to striking a new trade deal with the United States within the 30-day deadline set at the G7 summit in Alberta last week. The bilateral push, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney and former U.S. President Donald Trump, is aimed at resolving escalating tensions over tariffs and broader economic cooperation.
High-Level Talks Already Underway
Since the June 16 G7 leaders’ meeting in Kananaskis, Alberta, Hillman has met three times with her American counterparts, including U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc. Talks are focused on a range of critical issues — from tariffs on steel and aluminum to fentanyl control and Arctic defence — with more negotiations scheduled throughout the week.
Hillman Takes on Expanded Role
In a strategic move, Carney has named Hillman as Canada’s chief negotiator with the U.S., in addition to her ambassadorial duties. Hillman brings deep experience, having helped craft the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) during Trump’s first term and leading negotiations on the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership. Her elevation places her directly opposite Greer in the ongoing talks.
Tariffs and Deadlines Loom Large
The central point of friction remains U.S.-imposed tariffs, particularly on Canadian steel — currently at 50%. Canada has responded with counter-tariffs, and Carney has signalled willingness to increase them further if a deal isn’t reached by July 21. “It’s really important for Canada to show strength and resolve at the negotiating table,” Hillman told CBC, emphasizing Canada’s fight for “open trade and stability.”
Defence and Trade: Linked or Separate?
While trade dominates headlines, the talks also cover national security topics, such as border control and Arctic defence. Whether these discussions will be folded into the same agreement as the trade deal remains uncertain. Hillman noted the complexity of balancing strategic cooperation with economic fairness, especially given Trump’s repeated endorsement of tariffs as a negotiation tool.
Canada’s Message: Cooperation, Not Concession
Hillman stressed that while Canada can’t compel U.S. cooperation, it can demonstrate that mutual goals can be achieved without punitive tariffs. “Regardless of what we might hear the president say from time to time, they need us,” she said, underscoring the interconnectedness of the North American economy.
With the July 21 deadline fast approaching, both countries are expected to intensify negotiations. Whether the result is a comprehensive deal or incremental progress, the outcome will have lasting implications for workers, businesses, and the broader Canada-U.S. relationship.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
