Canada, US 'very close' to trade deal as talks continue

Canada and the United States are "very close" to finalizing a trade agreement, Canadian Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic LeBlanc announced Thursday.

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We're very close. We continue to make progress, and we're going to stay here and do the work that's necessary until we get to that point.

LeBlanc, who met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer in Washington, expressed optimism that an accord could be reached soon to prevent new US tariffs. Trump had threatened a new round of 50% tariffs on Canadian imports, but delayed their enactment for 72 hours as negotiations progressed.

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The prime minister has asked us, as premiers, as provinces, to return the US alcohol to the shelves.

While the specifics of the deal remain undisclosed, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has reportedly briefed provincial leaders on the potential terms. Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston indicated that provinces might be asked to reinstate US wine and liquor sales, which were previously removed in retaliation for US tariffs on Canadian goods. "It's been an irritant... that has kind of really bothered the United States," Houston said of the alcohol issue.

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It has been an irritant ... that has kind of really bothered the United States.

Despite potential progress on trade, some Canadian leaders expressed lingering frustration over Trump's past actions. Houston described the "emotional impact" of the trade disputes as "emotionally draining." Quebec Premier Christine Frechette stated she would evaluate restocking US alcohol only after reviewing the deal. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew, while open to the idea, suggested Canada holds leverage, remarking, "I think America is weaker around the world today than it was a year ago."

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It has been emotionally draining.