The trade relationship between Canada and the United States has been a subject of concern for both countries. Recently, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre made an energy pitch to US President Joe Biden’s predecessor Donald Trump, aiming to boost bilateral trade.
Poilievre’s Proposal
Poilievre proposed that the US approve the Keystone XL project, which would transport Canadian oil from Alberta’s oilsands to southeast Nebraska. This project has been stalled due to permits revoked by the Biden administration in 2021. Poilievre argued that allowing this project would provide a cheap source of energy for American consumers and support American jobs where refined downstream.
Trade Deficits and Jobs
Poilievre acknowledged that if Trump were to block Canadian trade with the US, American workers at refineries would lose their jobs, and consumers would pay higher prices. Instead, he suggested ramping up extraction of critical minerals that both countries can benefit from, reducing reliance on unfriendly states like China.
Addressing US Concerns
Poilievre also offered to address US concerns about border trafficking and military spending by investing the gains from his energy-exporting strategy in Arctic security. Trump has long complained that the US is being shortchanged by allies, with Canada currently falling short of NATO’s two percent defense spending goal.
A "Great Deal" for Both Countries
Poilievre believes that a Conservative government would fund a more robust military and continental defense if it had more free trade with the world’s greatest economy. He argued that this approach would benefit both countries, allowing them to win together.
The Path Forward
While Poilievre’s proposal aims to boost bilateral trade, the US has yet to respond positively to his overtures. The Keystone XL project remains stalled, and the US continues to prioritize its relationships with other countries. Nevertheless, Poilievre’s efforts demonstrate a commitment to finding mutually beneficial solutions in the Canada-US trade relationship.
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This article provides a detailed overview of Pierre Poilievre’s energy pitch to Donald Trump, highlighting the key points and potential implications for both countries.
