Photo credit: Louis Henault Dreamstime

By Curtis Galbraith

Federal Politics

MP Warkentin believes something was missing during Biden-Trudeau meetings

Mar 31, 2023 | 6:00 AM

Grande Prairie-Mackenzie MP Chris Warkentin says it was “good to be there” when U-S President Joe Biden spoke in the House of Commons during a recent visit to Canada.

“The American relationship with Canada is one of the most important relationships that exists. Regardless to who is in the White House, the United States is one of the most important trading partners for Canada. It’s one of the most important allies to our security as well and so it is important for us to have an open dialogue.”

Warkentin says what was missing from talks between Biden and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was any commitment on major issues for both countries.

“We have the President who has gone to Saudi Arabia to ask for them to increase the production of oil, when we know that Canada can supply the energy needs of the United States in a far more reliable way. Unfortunately, that wasn’t addressed. We did not see anything addressed on so many issues that would have been a benefit to both sides of the border.”

Warkentin says another example of this is softwood lumber; something that has been unresolved for years.

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He adds Trudeau “seems unwilling to move that issue forward,” adding this is becoming a concern for the industry as lumber prices level out.

Warkentin says there also seemed to be an unwillingness to address other issues that are important for both countries.

“The economic viability, the co-operation when it comes to defence, and a whole host of other things.”

“These are sometimes very difficult conversations, but I do believe that it is important for two mature nations, especially that are as close as us and the United States to engage in a meaningful way, in a way that is truthful.”

Warkentin adds “the health of a relationship can be judged by the willingness to address hard issues.”

Biden was in Ottawa March 23 and 24.