First Ministers Reaffirm Team Canada Approach, Advance Trade, Energy and Economic Security Agenda

First Ministers Joint Statement Reaffirms Team Canada Approach

Ottawa, Ontario – Canada’s First Ministers met in Ottawa on Wednesday, reaffirming their commitment to a unified Team Canada approach as they work to strengthen the country’s economy, expand trade, and protect Canada’s sovereignty in an increasingly complex global environment.

The meeting brought together Mark Carney and provincial and territorial premiers to advance coordinated action on economic resilience, national security, internal trade, and major nation-building projects.

Trade Diversification and Global Engagement

First Ministers discussed immediate opportunities to expand trade and investment relationships with international partners, underscoring the importance of diversifying Canada’s exports beyond the United States. The Prime Minister noted that premiers have led 20 international trade missions over the past six months, while the federal government has signed 12 trade and security agreements across four continents.

The Premiers and I are focused on building a stronger, more independent Canadian economy.

Together, we’re securing new trade and investment partnerships abroad and building major infrastructure at home. We’re transforming our economy — and it’s a Team Canada mission. pic.twitter.com/QW3g3aF3qk

— Mark Carney (@MarkJCarney) January 29, 2026

Leaders agreed to enhance coordination of international efforts with the goal of doubling Canada’s non-U.S. exports over the next decade. To support this work, the Prime Minister announced the launch of a Team Canada Trade Hub, designed to help provinces, territories, and industry attract new investment and do more business abroad.

First Ministers also committed to continued support for Canadian sectors affected by tariffs, including softwood lumber, steel, aluminum, autos, seafood, canola, and pork.

Sovereignty, Security, and the Arctic

Geopolitical developments were a key focus of the meeting, with First Ministers reaffirming Canada’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law, and to standing with its allies through North Atlantic Treaty Organization. Leaders emphasized the need to protect Canada’s sovereignty, including in the Arctic, and agreed to accelerate strategic investments in Canada’s North.

The Prime Minister also updated premiers on preparations for the upcoming joint review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement. First Ministers agreed on the importance of close federal-provincial coordination throughout the review process, including monthly briefings.

Energy, Infrastructure, and Major Projects

First Ministers welcomed progress on major nation-building projects and committed to working together to fast-track approvals, cut red tape, and streamline regulatory processes under the principle of “one project, one review,” while upholding reconciliation and the Duty to Consult Indigenous Peoples.

Energy security featured prominently in the discussions, with leaders agreeing to work collaboratively to modernize electricity systems across the country. The Prime Minister indicated that a new federal electricity strategy will be released soon, with governments working toward a net-zero electricity grid by 2050 while respecting provincial and territorial jurisdiction.

Internal Trade, Labour Mobility, and Housing

Leaders highlighted recent progress on internal trade, including a mutual recognition agreement on the sale of goods and a memorandum on interprovincial trucking. Citing IMF estimates that removing internal trade barriers could yield up to $210 billion in long-term GDP gains, First Ministers stressed the need to build momentum.

They agreed to expand mutual recognition to additional sectors by the end of 2026, improve labour mobility—particularly in construction and skilled trades—and align approval processes for new building materials and prefabricated homes. These measures are intended to support housing construction, lower costs, and strengthen Canada’s domestic supply chains.

Public Safety and Justice Reform

First Ministers also discussed community safety, border security, and law enforcement capacity. Premiers urged Parliament to pass the Bail and Sentencing Reform Act (Bill C-14), aimed at strengthening bail and sentencing laws, combatting hate crimes, protecting victims, and reducing court delays. Ministers responsible for justice and public safety were directed to report back by summer 2026 with a practical action plan.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by First Ministers to continue working collaboratively and to meet regularly on shared national priorities.

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