Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke today with provincial and territorial Premiers to discuss Canada-U.S. trade issues, with a focus on the upcoming renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). Canadian Ambassador to the United States, David MacNaughton, also participated on the call‎.

The Prime Minister and Premiers noted that the renegotiation of NAFTA offers an opportunity to modernize and improve the agreement. They also reaffirmed their commitment to vigorously defend Canadian interests throughout the negotiations and to obtain the best agreement possible for Canadians.

The Prime Minister and Premiers discussed the close collaboration between Canadian negotiators and officials from the provinces and territories. Given the impact of trade agreements on the provinces and territories, the Prime Minister committed to continued close collaboration as NAFTA negotiations unfold.

The Prime Minister and Premiers agreed to continue to work closely together to ensure that the message about the value of NAFTA and the trade relationship with Canada is understood by key U.S. decision makers. The Prime Minister thanked and acknowledged the good work of the Premiers on that front over the last few months. The Prime Minister pointed to the recent U.S. decision not to impose a border tax as an example of successful Canadian efforts.

The Prime Minister noted that NAFTA supports millions of middle class jobs in Canada, the United States and Mexico.