Prime Minister Justin Trudeau concluded a visit to Philadelphia on May 21, 2024, aimed at strengthening the Canada-U.S. relationship, enhancing cross-border trade, and promoting labour rights.
Trudeau attended the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Quadrennial North American Convention, where he highlighted the partnership between Canada and the U.S. and the role of labour unions in protecting workers’ rights. He praised unions for their contributions to creating stable, middle-class jobs and dynamic economies in both countries.
“Canada and the U.S. have the world’s most successful partnership. Team Canada is working with our American partners to deepen these ties, grow our economies, keep our air clean, create good-paying jobs, and build a better, fairer future,” said Trudeau. “Together, we’re putting our people on both sides of the border at the forefront of opportunity.”
Meeting with Harris
At the convention, Trudeau met with U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris to discuss the role of organized labor and ways to bolster the Canada-U.S. relationship. Their discussions covered trade and investment, supply chain collaboration, manufacturing sector support, and the transition to net-zero emissions.
Trudeau also met with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro to discuss the Canada-Pennsylvania relationship. Pennsylvania hosts many Canadian-owned businesses, employing over 30,000 workers in the state. Canada exports $13.6 billion worth of goods to Pennsylvania annually, emphasizing the significant economic ties between the two regions.
In addition to his meetings, Trudeau participated in a roundtable with U.S. business leaders to promote Canada as a prime investment destination. The discussions focused on future opportunities for commercial, investment, and trade collaboration.
AI Summit
During his visit, Trudeau took part in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Seoul Summit virtually, alongside global leaders from various sectors. He emphasized Canada’s leadership in AI, supported by a $2.4 billion investment package announced in Budget 2024.
Trudeau also endorsed the Seoul Declaration for Safe, Innovative and Inclusive AI, which aims to advance AI safety through international cooperation.
François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry, highlighted Canada’s ongoing efforts in AI governance, stating, “Canada continues to play a leading role on the global governance and responsible use of AI. From our role championing the creation of the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI) to pioneering a national AI strategy, we will continue engaging with the global community to build trust around this transformational technology.”
The visit underscores Canada’s commitment to fostering strong economic and diplomatic relationships with the United States, with a particular focus on labor rights, trade, and technological advancement.