Former PM Harper Advises Canada to Diversify Trade Beyond US

Former Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has advised the current government under Prime Minister Mark Carney to reduce Canada's economic reliance on the United States by diversifying trade partnerships globally. Harper, who previously advocated strengthening ties with the U.S., described the current trade tensions and tariff disputes as a wake-up call prompting this shift in recommendation. He emphasized the need for Canada to be independently responsible for its defense and to increase military spending rather than relying on the U.S. Harper also warned that China undermines global trade through World Trade Organization mechanisms and highlighted the importance of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership for trade with countries respecting global rules. His advice was reportedly sought by the Carney government recently, and he stressed the necessity of reaching a short-term trade agreement with the Trump administration while pursuing broader market opportunities. The comments were made publicly at conferences and legislative meetings, signaling a significant policy reorientation in Canadian trade and defense strategy.