Mark Carney, the Prime Minister of Canada, has announced his "Strong Canada" strategy for "unity" and "securing" the country against the trade war with the United States. He has called on Canadians to support his efforts to "stand up to" Donald Trump and help "build a stronger Canada."
The Victory of Separatists and New Challenges
However, Carney's united front has been tested again, as the Quebec separatist party (PQ) won the provincial election in Quebec on Monday. This victory comes just two weeks before the vote in Alberta on October 19 regarding remaining in Canada or continuing the separation process. The PQ has also announced its intention to hold a referendum on Quebec's independence. Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the new Premier of Quebec, said in his victory speech: "The brave battle of Francophones to protect their language and culture will only succeed when they have their own country."
Read more: Paramount finalizes the acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery
Challenges Ahead for Carney
However, Plamondon has stated that no referendum will be held "as long as Trump is President of the United States," referring to the political unrest caused by trade tensions. Experts believe that even if he changes his mind, holding such a referendum without a majority in the National Assembly of Quebec will be difficult. The PQ was five seats short of forming a majority government.
Despite the PQ's victory, there are few signs of Quebec's willingness to separate. Polls show that about 70 percent of Quebecers oppose independence, and 64 percent have rejected holding a new referendum on sovereignty.
Current trade challenges indicate that Carney is striving to maintain a cohesive approach at a time when Canada needs more mobility and strength. After the collapse of trade negotiations with the United States in August, Carney met virtually with provincial and territorial premiers to discuss new strategies. He emphasized in this meeting that "Canada is strongest when governments come together."
Despite serious challenges, Carney continues to seek support from Alberta through new trade proposals. In this context, the referendum on October 19, which will include questions related to immigration and the constitution, will allow Alberta to decide whether to initiate the necessary legal process for holding a separation referendum.
Read more: John Thune announced that there is no clear path for permanent daylight saving time legislation · Mark Carney warned of severe risks of a U.S. attack on Canada
