Overview
- At Davos on Jan. 20, Carney urged middle powers to coordinate against economic coercion, drawing a standing ovation and an immediate rebuke from President Trump, including threats of 100% tariffs.
- Ottawa has since touted rapid diversification, from a strategic partnership with the EU and joining its SAFE defense program to new arrangements with China and other partners.
- In public comments this week, Carney said he told Trump “I meant what I said,” after U.S. officials suggested he had softened his stance.
- Regional analysts say Asia‑Pacific governments see appeal in the concept but consider a cohesive bloc unlikely without a concrete blueprint.
- Opinion writers from the left and right question the approach’s consistency and inclusivity, highlighting critiques over sidelining the UN and Gaza as well as warnings that the USMCA review could be used to pressure Canada’s China ties.