Political leaders in Quebec are exploring a joint strategy to improve trade relations with the United States and reduce tensions over tariffs.
Parti Québécois (PQ) leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon and Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet met in Quebec City on Tuesday afternoon to discuss several issues, including ways to strengthen trade relations with Washington and ease the ongoing tariff dispute.
Following the approximately one-hour meeting, Plamondon said one of the main objectives was to develop a coordinated approach that could help gradually reduce American tariffs and ease trade tensions.
He argued that the results of the US midterm elections suggest American voters want relief from the tariffs.
Quebec Reaches Out to Newly Elected US Officials
As part of efforts to improve trade relations and reduce tensions with Washington, Plamondon has also sent letters to approximately 60 newly elected officials in US states that maintain trade ties with Quebec.
The initiative was first reported by the French-language newspaper Journal de Québec on Tuesday morning.
The outreach is intended to strengthen communication with American political representatives and highlight the importance of maintaining stable commercial relations between Quebec and the United States.
Mark Carney Says Trade Negotiations Should Remain Federal Responsibility
However, Prime Minister Mark Carney appeared less enthusiastic about the initiative.
Carney said that having a single negotiator is generally a more effective strategy when conducting negotiations.
During a visit to Montreal, he also emphasised that negotiations concerning Canada’s trade relationship with the United States fall under the responsibility of the federal government.
His comments highlighted the federal government’s position that international trade negotiations should be managed through a coordinated national approach rather than separate provincial initiatives.
Plamondon Pushes Back Against Federal Government’s Position
Responding to Carney’s remarks, Plamondon suggested that the prime minister wanted Quebec to stay out of the process because he preferred to maintain control over the entire negotiating field.
The Parti Québécois leader defended his initiative, arguing that Quebec has always played an active role in protecting its economic interests.
He also maintained that sending letters to American officials was consistent with the approach taken by previous provincial governments.
According to Plamondon, the initiative was undertaken in the interests of Quebec residents, and the province has the right to take action to protect its commercial and economic priorities.
The disagreement highlights the different approaches being considered by Quebec’s political leadership and the federal government as Canada continues to navigate trade tensions with the United States.
