U.S. Vice-President JD Vance shared insights on the recent trade agreement with Canada during a fundraising event on Wednesday. Vance mentioned that Prime Minister Mark Carney attempted to display toughness compared to U.S. President Donald Trump. He acknowledged Conservative MP Jamil Jivani’s role as a beneficial advocate for Canada.
In audio recordings from the private fundraiser in Southampton, N.Y., Vance described Carney as a “very sweet guy” with whom he gets along well. However, Vance remarked that Carney’s approach of trying to outdo Trump was amusing, as Canada made concessions on several issues despite Carney’s posturing.
Vance highlighted the contribution of Jivani, a “random MP” with a positive rapport, as an effective advocate behind the scenes. He also mentioned Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre as a negligible figure in the trade negotiations.
The White House and Vance’s office did not respond to inquiries for comments. Trump recently announced a temporary deal to postpone new tariffs on Canadian goods following discussions with Carney and intensive bilateral talks.
Reports suggest the agreement includes reductions in sectoral tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and automobiles by the United States. Carney reportedly instructed premiers to reintroduce American alcoholic beverages in liquor stores as part of the deal.
Vance emphasized that Trump aims to influence Canadian behavior through the agreement, seeking wins for the U.S. He mentioned that the relationship between Canada and the U.S. was disrupted by Trump’s tariffs and threats of annexation.
Jivani’s involvement in the negotiations was commended by Vance for advocating on mutually beneficial issues like energy and automobile tariffs. The longstanding friendship between Vance and Jivani, dating back to their time at Yale, has played a role in their collaboration.
Vance lauded Jivani as a valuable ally, noting his efforts in contributing to trade negotiations with the U.S. Government. Jivani’s engagements in Washington have stirred controversy within the Canadian Conservative Party, with Poilievre expressing dissent over potential tariffs in any deal with Trump.
Jivani’s initiatives in building ties with the Trump administration have caused tensions within the Conservative Party, with Poilievre publicly differing on the approach to trade negotiations with the U.S.
