Tensions between PM, Quebec premier continue to flare in new tiff over U.S. relations
CBC News ·
Key points
- The premier wrote to 59 newly elected U.S. officials, detailing Quebec's trade relationships with each state and inviting direct collaboration on projects for their populations.
- Carney responded by asserting that decisions on agreements and trade initiatives rest with the federal executive and that negotiations should have a single federal negotiator.
- St-Pierre Plamondon criticized the response, arguing that Quebec will not be prevented from representing its international interests and comparing Carney’s stance to wanting control of the rink.
- Prior to this, Carney denied St-Pierre Plamondon speaking time at the 21st Canada-EU summit in Montreal, prompting the premier to withdraw and send Quebec’s chief diplomat, Pascal Paradis, to handle the meetings.
- Paradis was named the PQ’s chief negotiator and diplomat, taking over responsibilities including the U.S. trade file, highlighting a shift in how Quebec engages with Ottawa and Washington.
- The two leaders have yet to meet in person since the premier’s October swearing-in, with plans to hold a first meeting in Quebec City that may be constrained by the prime minister’s schedule.
- Both leaders are preparing to participate in international engagements, including the Francophonie Summit in Cambodia, where they are expected to cross paths amid broader regional diplomacy.
Summary
A public spat between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Quebec Premier Paul St-Pierre Plamondon escalates after the premier sent letters to 59 newly elected U.S. officials proposing direct Quebec-U.S. collaboration on trade projects, prompting Carney to reaffirm that only the federal government can negotiate such deals and that a single negotiator is preferable. St-Pierre Plamondon defends Quebec’s international presence, insisting Ottawa cannot block Quebec from engaging with American states. The dispute follows earlier friction over speaking time at a Canada-EU summit, which led Quebec’s chief diplomat to represent the province and take over the U.S. trade file. The leaders are scheduled to meet later, with potential discussions at the Francophonie Summit in Cambodia. A byelection in Quebec is set for December 7, underscoring a tense political context.
This summary was written with AI. The full story has every detail.