Prime Minister Justin Trudeau launched the new Council on Canada-U.S. Relations (CCUSR), aiming to safeguard Canadian interests amid President-elect Donald Trump's threat of a 25% tariff.
The CCUSR is made up of 18 people who will advise Trudeau and his cabinet. Included is former Alberta NDP premier Rachel Notley.
Among those named to the panel are former Quebec premier Jean Charest and former Dragon's Den investor Arlene Dickinson.
They join key policy experts such as CUSMA negotiator Steve Verheul, Canada's ambassador to the United States Kirsten Hillman, and former national security adviser Jody Thomas.
Speaking after a meeting with provincial and territorial leaders, Trudeau stressed that the CCUSR will help Canada respond to any tariffs or trade barriers.
Provinces largely backed a plan to weigh all options in defence of Canadian workers and industries.
These options could include imposing counter-tariffs on certain American goods and ensuring revenue from those levies helps affected sectors.
Trudeau also emphasized that no single region should shoulder an unfair share of any response measures.
Trudeau said the federal government would "protect Canadians" by demonstrating the country's strength while striving to maintain longstanding ties with the United States.
Although tensions are rising, the new council will help shape a balanced approach to safeguard Canada's economic interests with the U.S.
Other council members include Unifor National President Lana Payne, Automotive Parts Manufacturers' Association President Flavio Volpe, Cameco CEO Tim Gitzel, Linamar CEO Linda Hasenfratz, and business advocate Wes Hall.
Policy insiders Brian Topp and David MacNaughton also join, as do Former Nova Scotia premier Stephen McNeil and Federation of Agriculture president Martin Caron.
The Trudeau government hopes the CCUSR will reinforce a stable, productive bilateral relationship with the U.S. by uniting leaders from diverse fields.
