# Canada courts global investors to break free from US dependence

> Prime Minister Mark Carney pitches a $1 trillion investment plan to diversify Canada's economy away from an increasingly protectionist America.
- Title: Canada courts global investors to break free from US…
- Summary: Prime Minister Mark Carney pitches a $1 trillion investment plan to diversify Canada's economy away from an increasingly protectionist America. Canada is…
- Keywords: canada, mark carney, united states, trade war, investment summit, toronto, economic diversification, european union, donald trump, larry fink, blackrock, stephen harper
- Source: Malay Mail — https://malaymail.com/news/world/2026/09/16/canada-seeks-greater-economic-independence-from-us-as-carney-courts-investors/235376
- Published: 2026-09-16T09:49:26+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: canada, mark carney, united states, trade war, investment summit, toronto, economic diversification, european union, donald trump, larry fink, blackrock, stephen harper
## Carney pitches Canada to investors
Prime Minister Mark Carney hosted global financial elite in Toronto, positioning Canada as an investment haven while acknowledging crucial US ties despite the trade war.
## Targeting $1 trillion in investment
Canada aims to attract $1 trillion in investment over five years. Carney promised tax deductions and reduced red tape to lure foreign capital.

> Our goal is to catalyze CAN$1 trillion (US$720 billion) of investment in Canada over the next five years
## Critical minerals and clean energy
Carney highlighted Canada's reserves of critical minerals and clean energy as keys to strategic autonomy. A new pipeline will bring Alberta oil to Asian markets.

> We are unleashing our full potential as an energy superpower
## Opening airports to private investment
Canada will allow private investment in its four largest airports, a controversial move rejected by previous governments that could generate billions in revenue.
## BlackRock CEO backs the plan
Larry Fink of BlackRock told the summit that international capital will seek out Canadian opportunities if the government follows through on its plans.
## Trump's unpredictable relationship
Carney shared an anecdote about Trump giving him a White House key, then joking they might shoot him. The story captures the unpredictable US relationship.

> He's like, 'Yeah, it's a key to the White House. You just bring it, they'll let you in,' And then (Trump) says, 'Maybe they'll shoot you.'
## Harper backs reduced US reliance
Former Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper supported Carney's approach, saying Canada must pursue diminished reliance on the US to preserve sovereignty.

> We cannot allow the Trump administration to hollow out our industrial capacities
## Pivoting toward the European Union
Carney headed to Strasbourg to attend the State of the European Union address. Closer EU ties are central to Canada's strategy to pivot from the US.
## Seeking a unique EU alliance
Canada and the EU plan to define their future relationship at a Montreal summit next month. Carney seeks partners Canada can rely on.

> It's crucial for Canada to be 'connected to partners on which we can rely'
## Key takeaway

Canada is actively seeking $1 trillion in foreign investment over five years to reduce economic reliance on the United States amid escalating trade tensions.