Prime Minister Mark Carney revealed that he had an early morning discussion with his U.S. counterpart regarding the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which has been under threat of obstruction by Donald Trump. Carney clarified to Trump that Canadians funded the bridge entirely and that Americans already possess a stake in its ownership.
He emphasized that the federal government allocated approximately $4 billion for the construction of the Windsor-Detroit bridge, involving labor and steel from both Canadian and U.S. sources, refuting Trump’s erroneous claims of minimal U.S. input. Despite Trump’s assertion that the U.S. owns both sides of the bridge, it is jointly owned by Canada and Michigan.
The Canada-Michigan Crossing Agreement, established in 2012, solidifies the shared ownership of the bridge, with Canada covering all initial construction expenses. The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, a Canadian Crown corporation, will oversee the bridge’s operations, governed by an International Authority comprising an equal number of representatives from both Canada and Michigan.
Carney, speaking from Parliament Hill, hailed the bridge as a symbol of cooperation between the two nations, anticipating its upcoming inauguration. The pivotal role the bridge will play in facilitating commerce, tourism, and cross-border travel between Canadians and Americans was underscored by Carney.
Moreover, discussions between Carney and Trump extended to matters concerning the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). Trump’s trade representative, Jamieson Greer, hinted at specific negotiations regarding the bridge, suggesting American interest in a share of toll revenues generated by Canada.
Greer emphasized the importance of the U.S. receiving a portion of toll proceeds to safeguard its economic interests, considering the substantial economic activity the bridge is expected to generate. Notably, once Canada recuperates its independent construction expenditure, Michigan stands to gain 50% of net toll earnings.
In addition to the bridge-related conversations, Greer highlighted challenges in the early stages of CUSMA negotiations with Canada, contrasting the pragmatic approach of Mexico with the perceived difficulties in dealing with Canada. The American expectations from Canada to ensure a successful CUSMA review this year encompass enhanced market access for U.S. farmers in the Canadian dairy sector and the resolution of the U.S. liquor boycott at the provincial level.