In a win for Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Canada will appoint a "fentanyl czar" to beef-up border security in response to potential U.S. tariffs on Canadian products.
On Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump offered Canada a one-month reprieve on punishing tariffs after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau promised to enhance Canada-U.S. border security with a $1.3 billion plan.
Trump has complained about the alleged flow of migrants and drugs from Canada into the U.S. Smith recently called for the creation of a border czar to appease Trump.
In a statement released on social media, Smith expressed hope over the agreement between Trump and Ottawa.
"I am greatly heartened to see that U.S. President Donald Trump and the Canadian government have agreed to a plan to crack down on fentanyl trafficking and other illegal activities at our shared border," she said.
Smith highlighted the significance of appointing a Canadian fentanyl czar, a move Alberta advocated for since discussions with U.S. officials indicated this would be pivotal in securing a tariff-free trade deal.
"Diplomacy has won the day. Let us ensure that continues as we know there is much more work ahead of us," she said.
Smith called on federal officials and provincial leaders to focus on advocacy and good faith negotiations rather than escalating tensions.
"There are so many win-win solutions on trade and security between our two nations. Let us turn this crisis into an opportunity to find them for the benefit of Canadians and Americans," she added.
In a commitment to furthering diplomatic endeavours, Smith announced her plans to travel back to Washington D.C. next week with other Canadian premiers to continue discussions.
