Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro delivered a strong defence of Canada and criticized U.S. President Donald Trump during a visit with Ontario Premier Doug Ford on Wednesday, as the two jurisdictions signed a new partnership agreement aimed at strengthening trade, energy cooperation, critical minerals development, and life sciences.
Speaking alongside Ford at a joint news conference, Shapiro expressed concern about the tone and direction of recent comments made by Trump toward Canada. He acknowledged that many Canadians may feel unwelcome because of repeated remarks questioning Canadian sovereignty and suggesting that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state.
Shapiro described the rhetoric as reckless and disrespectful, emphasizing that he fully respects Canada’s independence and sovereignty. He also warned that tariffs imposed by the Trump administration are harming both Canadian and American economies, creating uncertainty for businesses and consumers on both sides of the border.
According to Shapiro, trade between Pennsylvania and Ontario has already declined by approximately $500 million since the start of the recent trade disputes. He said the economic impact is being felt by businesses, workers, and consumers, resulting in fewer opportunities for companies and reduced market access for exporters.
The governor argued that political uncertainty and trade tensions are creating unnecessary economic challenges and making both countries less competitive. He stressed that Canada and the United States share one of the most successful economic relationships in the world and that continued cooperation is essential for future prosperity.
The comments came amid growing concerns about the future of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). Earlier this week, Trump suggested that he may not support renewing the trade pact, arguing that the United States does not need anything from Canada.
Ford strongly rejected that assertion, saying both countries depend heavily on one another. He pointed to the importance of collaboration in strategic sectors such as critical minerals, manufacturing, energy, and supply chains. Ford warned that weakening the Canada-U.S. partnership could create opportunities for other global competitors, particularly China, to strengthen their influence in key industries.
The Ontario premier emphasized that economic cooperation between Canada and the United States remains vital for maintaining North America’s competitiveness. He said the two countries must continue supporting one another rather than allowing trade disputes to undermine decades of economic integration.
The meeting with Shapiro followed Ford’s recent visit to Washington, D.C., where he met with lawmakers and business leaders to promote stronger Canada-U.S. trade relations. During that trip, a planned meeting with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce was unexpectedly cancelled. Media reports suggested the cancellation may have occurred under pressure from the White House, although Ford said he could not confirm the reports and indicated he remains committed to maintaining strong relationships with American business leaders.
Ford noted that he enjoys a positive relationship with senior officials at the Chamber of Commerce and expressed confidence that future opportunities for dialogue will occur.
The premier also addressed the upcoming opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, one of the largest infrastructure projects connecting Canada and the United States. While a ceremonial ribbon-cutting event is expected soon, Ford indicated he does not plan to attend until the bridge is fully operational and open to traffic.
The newly signed agreement between Ontario and Pennsylvania reflects growing efforts by provincial and state governments to strengthen economic partnerships despite ongoing trade tensions at the federal level. Leaders from both jurisdictions highlighted opportunities for cooperation in energy production, critical mineral development, advanced manufacturing, healthcare innovation, and life sciences research.
As uncertainty continues to surround future trade negotiations between Canada and the United States, the agreement signals a shared commitment by Ontario and Pennsylvania to deepen economic ties and protect cross-border trade that supports thousands of businesses and jobs in both regions.