Conservative MP Jamil Jivani recently embarked on a significant journey to Washington, D.C., where he engaged in high-level discussions about the Canada-U.S. relationship. His trip, marked by meetings with key American political figures, offers a unique perspective on bilateral trade and economic cooperation at a critical time for both nations.
Reflections from Oshawa's GM Plant
Before his Washington visit, Jivani connected with workers at the GM plant in Oshawa, a site once symbolic of industrial prosperity in Canada. He recounts how long-time residents describe the plant's heyday, when shifts ended with such a flood of employees that roads temporarily became one-way to manage the exodus. Today, however, the plant employs far fewer Canadians, yet the union's fighting spirit persists amid layoffs and shift reductions.
During his visit, Jivani met a dedicated union leader who expressed deep disappointment over Canada's plans to import Chinese electric vehicles. This trade agreement, the leader argued, signals a federal government abandonment of Canadian auto workers. Jivani promised to advocate for them, highlighting broader economic concerns shared by many Canadians.
Economic Context and Trade Dominance
Jivani notes that private sector employment in Canada has declined sharply, with 52,000 jobs lost in just one month, pushing the country into what economists call a "recession watch." Against this backdrop, trade issues with the United States continue to dominate political discourse, underscoring the urgency of his Washington mission.
Washington Meetings and Diplomatic Dialogue
In Washington, Jivani's schedule was a whirlwind of productive conversations. He held meetings with the White House and State Department, including discussions with President Donald Trump, Vice-President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Additionally, he met with senators from Montana, Ohio, and Wisconsin, as well as the United States Trade Representative.
Businesses and industries employing thousands of Canadians also shared their insights on how Canada-U.S. trade fits into their growth visions. Jivani emphasizes that doors were open for dialogue on collaboration, countering the pessimism often highlighted in media coverage.
Optimism and Strategic Diplomacy
Jivani attributes part of this access to his 15-year friendship with Vice-President Vance, but he found widespread optimism about advancing trade negotiations. Key insights emerged on making progress in specific sectors and the importance of strategic diplomacy. Jivani shared his perspective on why the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) is vital to communities like Bowmanville—Oshawa North, expressing hope that it will continue to foster a mutually beneficial economic and security relationship.
Moving Forward with Caution
Out of respect for the negotiation process, Jivani is cautious about sharing too many details publicly. He plans to debrief Prime Minister Mark Carney and Minister Dominic LeBlanc first, aiming to explore how Conservatives and Liberals can work together on trade with the United States. This collaborative approach underscores the trip's focus on national interest over partisan politics.
Jivani's experience highlights the ongoing importance of robust Canada-U.S. relations, driven by direct engagement and a shared commitment to economic resilience. As challenges mount, such diplomatic efforts remain crucial for securing a prosperous future for both countries.
