Prime Minister Mark Carney is in London today for high-level meetings with the leaders of the United Kingdom, Australia, Denmark, Spain and Iceland. The discussions are expected to focus on expanding trade opportunities and reinforcing mutual defence priorities, including coordinated responses to the war in Ukraine, the conflict in the Middle East, and security challenges in the Arctic.
This visit marks the latest stop in a series of international engagements for the Prime Minister, following trips to Mexico City, the United Nations General Assembly in New York, and recent bilateral meetings in Ottawa with the heads of Indonesia and Ireland. Government officials have framed the U.K. mission as part of a broader strategy to diversify Canada’s trade and security partnerships, reducing reliance on the United States and deepening ties with other key allies.
Prime Minister Carney, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will also participate in a moderated dialogue at the Global Progress Action Summit, a prominent annual forum that brings together centre-left political and business leaders from around the world.
While the government has emphasized the importance of face-to-face diplomacy to advance Canada’s international agenda, the Opposition Conservatives have criticized Carney’s recent travels, arguing that they have yet to deliver tangible benefits for Canadians at home.
The Prime Minister’s London visit is being closely watched as Canada seeks to build momentum in reshaping its trade relationships and strengthening collective security with trusted allies.