MNI BRIEF: Carney, Trump Poised For Tariffs After Trade Call

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Friday he had a "very constructive" call with U.S. President Donald Trump though both leaders signaled more tariffs and counter-tariffs between two of the world's largest trade partners are coming next week.

"The Prime Minister informed the President that his government will implement retaliatory tariffs to protect Canadian workers and our economy, following the announcement of additional U.S. trade actions on April 2," according to a statement. Carney is running for election Apr. 28 and said he and Trump "agreed to begin comprehensive negotiations about a new economic and security relationship immediately following the election."

The President also indicated a productive dialogue in his own readout, saying after the election they will "work on elements of Politics, Business, and all other factors, that will end up being great for both." Trump also addressed Carney as Prime Minister instead of calling him a potential Governor of a 51st State they way he had referred to Justin Trudeau. 

Trump's threat of economic force to subdue Canada vaulted Carney ahead of Conservative Pierre Poilievre. Some Canadian opinion writers speculate Trump may wish to tilt the scales by suggesting he's happier with Carney. (MNI INTERVIEW: Trump Risks North American Recession- NS FinMin)