By John Q. Hosedrinker 
At the Midwestern Legislative Conference in Saskatchewan, former Prime Minister Stephen Harper advised the current government to diversify Canada’s trade partners, due to an over-reliance on the U.S. Harper called the trade war a wake-up call, suggesting Canada’s economic dependence on a single market is unwarranted. U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra emphasized the need for a strong manufacturing sector, while Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe discussed the potential use of provincial resources as leverage in trade negotiations. The conference, attended by leaders from four Canadian provinces and eleven U.S. states, focuses on finding common ground and sharing regional success stories, such as carbon capture technology.
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Stephen Harper says he advised Mark Carney’s government to move away from the U.S. – Well, isn’t that interesting? It seems the former Prime Minister, the very one who, for years, appeared to be building a very strong relationship with the United States, is now suggesting a shift. It’s like he’s saying, “Hey, maybe we shouldn’t have all our eggs in one basket.” Some might call it a bit of a U-turn, considering his past. It’s certainly a change in perspective.
It’s worth noting that Harper’s stance now, and it appears he did so in an advisory capacity, contrasts sharply with his earlier actions. During his time in office, he seemed to prioritize and strengthen ties with the U.S. So, this recent advice, well, it feels a bit like a course correction, and a rather pointed one at that.
The timing of this advice is also intriguing. Considering the current global climate and the evolving political landscape, it’s not hard to see why Canada might want to re-evaluate its reliance on any single nation, including the United States. Many would probably agree it’s a prudent move, regardless of who’s offering the advice.
However, the source of the advice is also what’s garnering attention. Harper, the former leader of the Conservative Party, still holds considerable influence within those circles. His words carry weight, and this shift in his perspective forces the current Conservative leadership to address the issue. It creates a unique situation where the old guard is pushing for change.
Now, of course, this is a sensitive issue. Canada and the U.S. have a long and complex relationship, deeply intertwined economically, culturally, and strategically. Changing that dynamic would require time, planning, and careful execution. It isn’t something that can be done overnight, and there will be winners and losers.
And let’s be clear, this isn’t about simply severing ties. It’s about diversification and seeking new avenues for economic growth and international partnerships. It’s about safeguarding Canada’s interests in a world that is becoming increasingly unpredictable.
There is also the underlying political implications of this. It would seem as if the new Conservative leadership is trying to play both sides of the fence. Harper, known for his very strong ties to the US is advocating against the US while the new leadership, it would seem, is trying to be as similar to Trump as they can.
The fact that Harper is openly giving advice, especially on a matter this significant, is an indication of his continued engagement in public discourse. His position is relevant and influential because of his past, and his words will resonate with many.
It is essential to remember that there will be challenges and difficulties with any shift, and the transition will be difficult. The business that have grown to rely on the US need to readjust, and it will likely take time.
Of course, there’s also the broader context of Harper’s involvement in international organizations. He is associated with groups that have supported some, shall we say, controversial leaders and regimes. This might make some people hesitant to trust his advice.
Ultimately, Harper’s advice is a symptom of a much broader shift in the world. It underscores the complex and evolving relationship between Canada and the United States, and, yes, it sparks conversations, especially given the source of the advice.