US, Canadian officials meet in Italy to tackle trade, security issues

US Vice President JD Vance and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met in Rome on May 18 to discuss trade, border security, and regional defence cooperation.

The meeting, held on the sidelines of Pope Leo XIV’s inaugural Mass, comes as the US and Canada work to resolve an ongoing dispute over tariffs that has strained economic relations between the two neighbours, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

Vance’s office stated that the conversation focused on fair trade policies, with both sides aiming to de-escalate trade tensions and find common ground on key economic issues. A separate statement from Carney’s office said the two leaders also addressed a range of shared priorities, including securing borders, cracking down on the fentanyl crisis, and increasing investments in defence and national security.

According to the Canadian statement, the discussion also highlighted “the immediate trade pressures” facing both nations and underscored “the need to build a new economic and security relationship.” Both leaders agreed to maintain close contact moving forward. Earlier in the day, Vance and Carney joined other world leaders at the Vatican to attend the inaugural Mass of Pope Leo XIV, marking the beginning of his papacy. 

At the end of March, Carney stated that the US is no longer a reliable partner for Canada. His remarks came after US President Donald Trump announced new tariffs on cars. Carney was preparing sweeping economic reforms aimed at strengthening Canada’s position in negotiations over a new trade agreement with the US.

By Naila Huseynova