Mr. Speaker,
I rise today to provide an update on the Council of the Federation February 2025 mission to the United States to advocate for stronger ties between our neighbouring countries.
Mr. Speaker for the first time ever, all 13 of Canada’s Premiers travelled to Washington, D.C. during the week of February 10, to send a message to the newly elected administration and other American politicians that tariffs on Canadian goods would hurt workers and businesses on both sides of the border.
We met with bipartisan members of Congress, and American and Canadian business and labour leaders. We were also invited to the White House to meet with senior advisers to President Trump.
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to note that my colleagues, Northwest Territories’ Premier Simpson, and Yukon’s Premier Pillai, and I, once again worked as a united front to put the North’s interests and perspectives on the national agenda.
Following the official Council of the Federation meetings, Northern Premiers attended several joint engagements to deliver a unified message for a strong and thriving Arctic and the North.
Mr. Speaker as Northern leaders we stressed that a strong Canada-U.S. partnership is essential to addressing shared priorities. From economic growth to energy security, critical mineral supply chains, and border security our collaboration is key to navigating these emerging challenges.
This commitment was further reinforced during a presentation at the Wilson Center, where we highlighted the importance of Arctic Security and the opportunities for alignment and cooperation between Canada and the United States in the Arctic.
Mr. Speaker one of the highlights of our trip was our meeting with officials from Denmark and Greenland. Now more than ever, we are allied with Greenland on key Arctic issues, including security, climate change and potential economic partnership.
One of the reoccurring themes in my engagements in Washington was the need for investments in nation-building infrastructure that can unlock Nunavut’s critical minerals and energy potential.
Through strategic partnerships with Inuit organizations and sustainable development, we can put Nunavut on the map, as a trusted partner and sound investment.
Mr. Speaker, my Northern colleagues, and I reiterated the message that we are committed to Canada’s sovereignty and will continue to prioritize security of the north, which includes Arctic energy and economic security. Northern Premiers will stand together with other Canadian First Ministers to protect and strengthen our economy and our communities—together, as Canadians.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.