PM Mark Carney and Canada’s Premiers Speak at Close of First Ministers’ Meeting – January 29, 2026

First Ministers' Meeting Highlights

• 💡 The 11th First Ministers' Meeting focused on fostering a united, strong, and ambitious future for Canada amidst a divided world.
• 🎯 Discussions included the upcoming review of the Canada, United States, Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), with leaders agreeing to monthly meetings once negotiations commence.
• 🔑 Canada has secured 12 new trade and security agreements across four continents in the last six months, aiming to catalyze investment and create jobs.

Economic Growth and Trade Initiatives

• 🚀 A Team Canada Trade and Investment Hub will be created to support trade missions and business delegations, leveraging federal, provincial, and territorial representatives.
• 📊 Leaders committed to removing interprovincial trade barriers, which are estimated to cost Canadians $200 billion annually, with internal trade ministers meeting in March.
• ✅ Efforts will focus on improving labor mobility and addressing federal regulations identified by provinces and territories.

Infrastructure and Energy Strategy

• 🏗️ Nation-building infrastructure was a core focus, with 11 projects totaling over $116 billion in potential investments referred to the Major Projects Office.
• ⚡ The federal government will release a draft National Electricity Strategy to double Canada's electricity grid, enhance energy advantage, and deliver cleaner, more affordable power.
• 🚢 The Kuko terminal container project in Montreal, set to break ground in spring, will increase the port's capacity by 60%, boosting trade capabilities.

Upholding National Unity

• 🇨🇦 Premiers emphasized unity in standing up for Canada's sovereignty, supporting democracy, and defending Canadian workers and businesses.
• ⚠️ Concerns were raised regarding reports of Trump administration officials meeting with an Alberta separatist group, with leaders asserting the expectation of respect for Canadian sovereignty.
• ⚖️ Support was expressed for Bill C14 to address extortion threats and close loopholes related to refugee status for individuals involved in terror-like activities.

Expanding Energy Markets

• 🛢️ Discussions included exploring new pipeline routes to Asian markets, with a focus on deep-water ports that avoid complex navigation, and potential for indigenous ownership.
• 🚂 Alternatives like oil by rail to the East Coast for European markets and potential opportunities via Churchill (Manitoba) were also considered.
• 🌱 The goal is to diversify Canadian energy exports beyond the United States and find new international markets.