Smith praises her ‘diplomatic strategy’ as Trump pauses Canadian tariffs
https://www.westernstandard.news/alberta/smith-praises-her-diplomatic-strategy-as-trump-pauses-canadian-tariffs/61357
She all but told them so. That would be11 other premiers and the prime minister, that is.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is framing the news that US President Donald Trump has decided to hold off on imposing tariffs on Canadian goods saw a validation of her diplomatic masterplan, framing it as an opportunity to reinforce economic and security ties between the two countries even as the remaining premiers and Prime Minister Trudeau plot a trade war with the incoming administration.
Trump was barely in office for more than two hours before Smith took to confidante Elon Musk’s Twitter (“X”) to thank Trump for pressing pause on potentially crippling energy tariffs.
“We appreciate the recognition that this is a complex issue with serious implications for workers, businesses, and consumers on both sides of the border, given our deeply integrated markets and critical energy partnership,” Smith said in a statement.
The decision to delay tariffs could safeguard hundreds of thousands of Canadian and American jobs across sectors, Smith said, pointing out that by refraining from imposing tariffs on Canadian energy Trump has ensured the viability of dozens of US refineries that rely on Alberta crude, along with tens of thousands of American jobs tied to those operations.
The statement came after Smith last week took flack from her fellow premiers — notably Ontario’s Doug Ford — and the PM for being the lone holdout on a joint communique that amounted to a ransom note on withholding some 4.5 million barrels per day (bpd) of Alberta oil exports.
Despite the positive development, Smith cautioned that the threat of tariffs remains very real and called for immediate action to strengthen Canada-US relations.
“We must focus on diplomacy and avoid retaliatory rhetoric or threats,” she said. Smith emphasized that her discussions in Washington this week with Trump, US governors, senators, and congressional leaders showed a path forward through cooperation and shared priorities.
Smith outlined six key recommendations for Canada to solidify its economic partnership with the U.S. and avoid future tariffs:
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Prioritize Diplomacy: Refrain from threats or retaliation, and work in good faith to address trade concerns.
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Increase Bilateral Trade: Promote mutual trade benefits, such as increased U.S. imports of Canadian oil, timber, and agriculture, while Canada sources more American-made goods, including gas turbines and military equipment.
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Enhance Border Security: Strengthen measures to combat illegal drugs and migration along the Canada-U.S. border.
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Accelerate NATO Commitments: Fast-track Canada’s commitment to meet the 2% of GDP NATO target, reinforcing shared security interests.
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Revamp Immigration Policy: Address immigration loopholes that threaten national security and return to policies aligned with those of former Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
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Support Canada’s Energy Sector: Repeal federal anti-energy policies and fast-track major energy projects like Northern Gateway and Energy East.
“This is a critical moment for Canada to demonstrate leadership,” Smith added. “Rather than escalate tensions, we need to double down on building a win-win partnership that benefits both nations’ economies and security.”
Smith’s proactive outreach to U.S. leaders has positioned Alberta as a key voice in Canada’s economic and energy strategies, ensuring that the province’s priorities remain central to any future negotiations. While the tariff threat may have subsided for now, Smith remains focused on ensuring long-term stability in Canada-U.S. relations.