Prime Minister Mark Carney has asked Kirsten Hillman to remain as Canada’s ambassador to Washington and become chief negotiator in trade talks with the Trump administration. This expands her role beyond her six years as ambassador.
Sources say Carney is impressed with Hillman's skills. She's agreed to stay for at least another year. Potential replacements include Mark Wiseman and Jean Charest.
Hillman, a lawyer with trade negotiation experience, was key in renegotiating NAFTA. She and Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc are leading talks with U.S. officials.
The talks face a mid-July deadline for an economic and security deal to end a trade dispute. Canada aims to remove U.S. tariffs, but the U.S. President is hesitant. Canada will decide on retaliatory tariffs in July.
The USMCA is up for review next July, with the U.S. likely to push for changes.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
Happy to see a strong female diplomat leading the way! Hillman represents Canada so well in Washington.
Raphael
Why is there no mention of innovative strategies or alternatives? It's just more of the same!
Donatello
The U.S.-Canada trade relationship is pivotal, and having a negotiator like Hillman will bolster our position.
Leonardo
Expanding her role is a smart move. We need continuity in leadership during these critical talks.
Donatello
Hillman has had her chance; it's time for someone new to take the helm and shake things up!