Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly spoke about Canada’s trade strategy, economic uncertainty, and foreign policy during a visit to Halifax on Friday.
She reiterated Canada’s commitment to a two-state solution, discussed reducing reliance on U.S. trade, and highlighted plans to strengthen internal markets. Joly also pointed to military investment as a way to create jobs and improve economic stability.
Canada’s Position on a Palestinian State
Joly reiterated that Canada remains committed to a two-state solution, emphasizing that Palestinians have a right to self-determination.
She said it is in everyone’s best interest that a Palestinian state exists alongside Israel in peace and security. She also underscored Canada’s opposition to the forced displacement of people and said all parties must adhere to international law.
“We believe in a two-state solution,” Joly said. “Palestinians have a right to self-determination, and it is in everyone’s best interest that a Palestinian state exists alongside Israel in peace and security.”
Reducing Trade Dependence on the U.S.
Joly said Canada’s trade relationship with the United States remains important, but the government is actively working to diversify its economic ties to reduce risk. She acknowledged that the country is too dependent on U.S. trade and said strengthening Canada’s internal market will help create more stability.
“When it comes to trade diversification, we recognize that Canada has an over-reliance on trade with the United States. Strengthening internal trade within Canada is essential to protecting jobs and investing in our future,” she said.
She also pointed to Canada’s existing trade agreements with Europe and Asia, noting that many businesses either lack awareness of these agreements or do not have the resources to take full advantage of them.
She said the government is working to address this issue by supporting businesses, particularly in smaller markets, to explore international trade opportunities.
Economic Stability and Military Investment
Beyond trade, Joly said economic stability is a key priority for the government, particularly in the face of uncertainty surrounding U.S. policies. She said reducing interprovincial trade barriers will allow businesses to expand within Canada, providing them with more stability.
“To mitigate economic risks associated with U.S. trade policies, we are prioritizing domestic economic growth by reducing interprovincial trade barriers. Strengthening internal markets will help protect existing jobs and create new opportunities,” she said.
Joly also highlighted military investment as a way to strengthen Canada’s economy, saying increased spending in the defence sector will help create jobs and contribute to industrial growth. She framed it as both an economic and national security issue, saying Canada needs to be prepared for changing global dynamics.
“Given today’s geopolitical realities, we must enhance our defence capabilities, both for national security and economic stability,” she said.
While she did not provide specifics on upcoming defence investments, she made it clear that the government sees military spending as a tool for both security and job creation.
