OTTAWA — U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra stated that the recent warning from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the potential non-renewal of the North American trade agreement presents an opportunity for Canada to put forward proposals.
"You may not appreciate the president's delivery, but interpret his message as an indication that we are receptive to offers," Hoekstra remarked during the 2026 U.S.-Canada Summit in Toronto on Thursday. "Present your case."
Hoekstra's comments followed Trump's announcement on Wednesday that he does not intend to extend the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). The pact includes a July 1 deadline for a 16-year renewal, a provision negotiated during Trump's first term.
Should the three nations fail to agree on renewal, the agreement will transition into a phase of annual reviews.
"We do not require anything from Canada or Mexico, but they rely on us, and they must improve their treatment of us," Trump told reporters.
Earlier this month, Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc formally requested the renewal of CUSMA for another 16 years. LeBlanc also visited Washington last week for discussions with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
Speaking at the same summit, LeBlanc emphasized that Canada has not been a passive observer in the negotiations.
"We have presented the United States and President Trump with specific proposals that we believe benefit both the U.S. and Canadian economies," LeBlanc said.
Greer has highlighted challenges in the negotiations, including provincial bans on U.S. alcohol. During his visit to Washington, Ontario Premier Doug Ford indicated that U.S. alcohol would return to LCBO shelves once a trade deal is finalized.
LeBlanc downplayed the significance of the July 1 deadline, stating it is not a "cliff that everyone falls off."
Hoekstra acknowledged that the U.S.-Canada relationship has generated prosperity, wealth, and jobs on both sides of the border.
"So, let's continue moving forward," the ambassador told the Toronto audience.
More details to follow.
