The Prime Minister's Very Good Week

By now, you’ve likely seen Prime Minister Carney’s remarkable address at the World Economic Forum in Davos. If not, it’s well worth your time—please listen here. Calling the speech a success would barely do it justice. Carney garnered a rare standing ovation, dominated international headlines, and set social media abuzz with clips and commentary from his address.

Carney’s sense of timing is, as ever, exceptional. Just as his decision to seek the Prime Minister’s office was perfectly judged, so too was the delivery of this speech in Davos. At a moment when the world is still grappling with Trump’s punitive tariffs, the crisis in Venezuela, threats directed at Greenland, and the creation of the Board of Peace with its billion-dollar entry fee, Carney challenged middle powers to resist Trump’s heavy-handedness by forging strategic alliances on shared priorities, spotlighting Canada as a model in this effort. If there were a gauge measuring national pride, it would have been redlining by the time Carney concluded his remarks.

He avoided grandiose language and political theatrics, instead inspiring hope by drawing on his background as an economist. He laid out a clear, logical pathway for progress—offering not just a visionary speech, but a practical roadmap to real outcomes.

Of course, significant challenges remain. Some worry that Carney’s forthright stance against Trump may complicate the upcoming negotiations on the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). While this is a valid concern, history shows there are no assurances that appeasement leads to lasting gains; on the contrary, the U.S. has often responded with continued punitive tariffs regardless. The rise of right-wing populist governments in Europe could also present obstacles to Carney’s strategy. Despite these risks, it is clear from the Prime Minister’s address that he will not simply adopt a “wait and see” attitude. Instead, he is committed to strengthening our economy through purposeful partnerships with like-minded nations and inviting others to join Canada’s approach.

Upon returning home, Carney addressed Canadians from Quebec City ahead of a Cabinet meeting, urging unity across the country. He affirmed that to be Canadian is to embody kindness, unity, and a celebration of diversity. He recognized that Canada’s foundation rests on the skills and innovation of its people, and the wealth of its natural resources. He painted a vivid picture of what it means to be Canadian today. In response to Trump’s disparaging remarks in Davos, Carney confidently stated, “Canada does not exist because of the US, Canada thrives because we are Canadians.”

All in all, it was a very good week for both the Prime Minister and for Canada.