Canada has submitted written recommendations to the United States and Mexico to renew the trilateral trade agreement (USMCA) for 16 years, while seeking parallel talks on sectoral tariffs. Canadian Minister Dominic LeBlanc outlined the proposals in a letter on Tuesday, ahead of a meeting with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

The letter states that the joint review process offers an opportunity to strengthen the agreement and adapt to evolving economic conditions. It also emphasizes the need to address sectoral tariffs. US tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles have hurt Canada's economy.

This is LeBlanc's second meeting with Greer since March; they have also spoken by phone. Businesses have criticized Canada for being slow to start the USMCA review, which must be completed by July 1. Mexico has been more proactive in engaging with the US administration.

US President Donald Trump suspended all talks with Canada late last year after Ontario aired an advertisement featuring Ronald Reagan warning that tariffs lead to trade wars. Prime Minister Mark Carney told reporters there are technical issues with the US.

In a New York speech, Carney said a stronger Canadian economy would support US growth. "Canada Strong will help make America great again," he said. The US and Mexico concluded their first round of bilateral USMCA talks last week.

Source: www.aljazeera.com