OTTAWA, March 14, (V7N) – Former central banker Mark Carney will be sworn in as Canada’s next prime minister on Friday, taking office at a time of heightened tensions with the United States. He replaces Justin Trudeau, who resigned in January after nearly a decade in power and declining public support.

Carney, a political newcomer at 59, was overwhelmingly backed by the ruling Liberal Party, which hopes his experience in leading two central banks through financial crises will help stabilize a country facing a potential trade war. He assumes office as US President Donald Trump imposes sweeping import tariffs, including a 25% levy on Canadian steel and aluminum, prompting Canada to retaliate with tariffs on US goods.

Striking a defiant tone, Carney declared, "Canada never ever will be part of America in any way, shape, or form." Despite tensions, he has expressed willingness to negotiate a renewed trade accord with Trump to avoid further economic conflict.

With elections due by October and a possible snap poll in weeks, Carney may not be in office for long. The opposition Conservatives currently hold a slight edge in polls, and Trump's aggressive trade policies are expected to dominate the upcoming campaign.

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