First Ministers issue joint statement following meetings in Ottawa
Yesterday, Canada’s First Ministers met in Ottawa to reaffirm their commitment to a unified Team Canada approach. They also advanced their coordinated work to build a stronger, more prosperous, more resilient Canadian economy.
First Ministers discussed the ongoing geopolitical situation, reiterating Canada’s “unwavering commitment to democracy and the rule of law.” Canada, the statement notes, stands with its NATO Allies and remains united in protecting Canada’s sovereignty, including in the Arctic, and agreed to accelerate strategic investments in Canada’s North.
First Ministers also discussed opportunities to expand trade and investment relationships with international partners. Prime Minister Mark Carney said that in the last six months, Premiers have led 20 trade missions around the world. The federal government has signed 12 trade and security agreements across four continents.
“First Ministers agreed on the importance of enhancing Canadian competitiveness, attracting foreign direct investment, and diversifying trade to double Canada’s non-U.S. exports over the next decade,” noted the statement. “They agreed to enhance the coordination of their international efforts as they work together to promote new investments and grow Canada’s economy. To this end, the Prime Minister is announcing the launch of a Team Canada Trade Hub. The Hub will enhance coordination of our trade diversification efforts and support provinces, territories and industry to do more business abroad and get more investment into Canada.”
The PM updated Premiers on plans for the upcoming joint review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). “The Prime Minister noted that Canada has the best trade deal with the United States. s the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act (Bill C-14) expeditiously. First Ministers acknowledged progress on these shared priorities and directed Attorneys General and Ministers responsible for Justice and Public Safety to report back in Summer 2026 with a practical action plan that delivers real, visible improvement to community safety.”