Mark Carney sworn in as Canada's new prime minister, says ‘Canadians expect action’

Mark Carney, former central banker, was formally sworn in as prime minister of Canada on Friday, March 14, at a crucial time when the country is clashing with neighbouring United States over tariffs from President Donald Trump that could devastate the trade-dependent Canadian economy.

Mark Carney took oath of office in the presence of Governor General Mary Simon, the personal representative of King Charles, who is Canada's head of state. He is the first prime minister in the history of Canada without political experience.

After swearing-in as the Canadian prime minister, Mark Carney said, “Today, we’re building a government that meets the moment. Canadians expect action — and that’s what this team will deliver. A smaller, experienced cabinet that moves faster, secures our economy, and protects Canada’s future.”

In the coming days, Mark Carney plans to travel to London and Paris, said a diplomat aware of the plans. Canada has sought to shore up alliances in Europe as its relations with the United States sink to unprecedented lows.

As for the tariff threats, Mark Carney has also maintained a firm stance against US stating that he would be willing to meet Donald Trump only when there is “respect for Canadian sovereignty.”

He also said he would keep in place retaliatory tariffs on US goods until the United States showed Canada some respect.

Justin Trudeau, who resigned earlier this year, said in his last message as the prime minister he will always remain “boldly and unapologetically” Canadian.

In a video message, which was captioned ‘Hey Canada, one last thing’, Justin Trudeau said, “I am so proud of Canadians, I am proud to serve the country so full of people who stand up for what's right, rise to every occasion, always have each others' backs, when it matters the most.”

“This maybe my last day here in this office but I will always be boldly and unapologetically Canadian. My only ask is no matter what the world throws at us, you always be the same,” he said.