French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney held a joint press conference in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon on September 20, 2026, to discuss strengthening ties between France and Canada. Macron emphasized that both countries value their independence and sovereignty, stating, "France and Canada are two great independent nations who want to stay that way." The meeting took place in the tiny overseas French territory off the coast of Canada's Newfoundland.
The leaders' meeting comes as both countries face increasingly awkward relations with the US under President Donald Trump. Carney's visit to France's North Atlantic territory marks a significant step in tightening links with France and the European Union. This move is part of Canada's efforts to reduce its dependence on the US and pursue deeper economic, security, and political relationships with Europe. Carney recently expressed interest in Canada becoming the European Union's first associate member.
The meeting between Macron and Carney focused on several key areas, including fishing, security, and energy. Macron posted a video on X welcoming Carney at the airport, highlighting the importance of their friendship in a world in crisis. He stated that their partnership affirms their sovereignty, freedom to decide, and willingness to build a future of peace and prosperity. The two leaders aim to work together to secure oil and gas supplies, particularly as the Iran war disrupts global energy markets.
Macron emphasized Canada's significant resources of critical minerals and rare earths, as well as its major oil and natural gas production. He expressed interest in concluding agreements to secure more liquefied natural gas that can be shipped to Europe's Atlantic coast. This move is crucial for France, which is facing increased pressure at home over rising fuel prices. Macron would like Canada to broaden its exports of liquefied natural gas to Europe, rather than primarily Asia.
The visit has significant symbolic weight, particularly following Trump's social media post that showed the US flag draped over several territories, including Saint Pierre and Miquelon. Diplomats noted that Macron's visit, which was en route to the annual UN General Assembly, was a deliberate move to counterbalance Trump's actions. For France, Saint Pierre and Miquelon is strategically important due to its location on the doorstep of the US and the Arctic.
Macron welcomed a recent agreement between the US and Denmark on Greenland, which expands the US military presence while keeping the island under Danish control. He stated that anything that helps ease tensions is a good thing, as long as international law and sovereignty are respected. The agreement follows months of threats by Trump to seize the semiautonomous territory of a NATO ally.
The meeting between Macron and Carney marks a new chapter in France-Canada relations, with both leaders committed to strengthening their partnership. Key areas of cooperation include energy security, fishing, and security. As both countries navigate complex global relationships, their alliance is seen as a vital component of their foreign policy strategies.
Key points
- France and Canada aim to strengthen ties on fishing, security, and energy.
- The meeting is part of Canada's efforts to reduce its dependence on the US and pursue deeper relationships with Europe.
- Macron and Carney emphasized the importance of sovereignty and independence in their partnership.
