Leaders of Canada and Mexico are holding discussions focused on trade and security, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding their free-trade agreement with the United States. The talks come at a time of heightened uncertainty due to evolving U.S. policies and leadership dynamics. President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico and Prime Minister Mark Carney of Canada met at the National Palace in Mexico City on Thursday to address these pressing concerns.
The primary objective of the meeting was to ensure the stability and continuity of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), now known as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Both leaders expressed their commitment to maintaining the economic ties that have been a cornerstone of the region’s prosperity for decades. They also discussed potential vulnerabilities in the agreement and ways to strengthen it to adapt to current global economic conditions.
Security remains a critical topic of discussion, particularly given the ongoing challenges in the region. The leaders acknowledged the importance of collaboration on border security, drug trafficking, and counterterrorism efforts. The absence of U.S. President Donald Trump in the meetings has raised questions about the future direction of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada relationship and the potential impacts on regional trade and security dynamics.