OTTAWA — Canada’s ambassador to the United States, Kirsten Hillman, confirmed that Prime Minister Mark Carney is actively seeking a conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump “as soon as possible.”

In an interview with Fox News on Sunday, Hillman stated that Canadian officials had reached out to the White House following Carney’s swearing-in on Friday and were eager to establish communication.

“The prime minister is looking forward to building a strong and productive relationship with President Trump,” Hillman said. She emphasized that while Carney respects Trump’s focus on strengthening the U.S. economy, his priority remains ensuring Canada’s economic success.

When asked about the impending U.S. tariffs set to take effect on April 2, Hillman refrained from commenting on whether Canada could avoid them. She noted that a recent meeting with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick made it clear that Canada would be impacted.

Meanwhile, Carney is embarking on his first international trip as prime minister, visiting France and the U.K. to discuss security, trade, and economic partnerships. He will then travel to Iqaluit, Nunavut, to reaffirm Canada’s commitment to Arctic sovereignty.

Despite the ongoing trade tensions, Carney has no immediate plans to visit the U.S. but has expressed a willingness to engage with Trump when the timing is right.