In a heartfelt Canada Day message, Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Canadians to embrace unity, shared values, and long-term growth as the nation charts its course through increasingly turbulent times. Recorded outside Rideau Cottage in Ottawa, the video marked 158 years since Confederation and reflected on both the country’s deep-rooted history and its future aspirations.
Carney began by revisiting the foundational vision of Confederation: that a united group of provinces would thrive more together than apart. He acknowledged that this vision became reality in what is now a resilient, diverse, bilingual, and multicultural Canada.
“Our journey as a nation started long before 1867,” Carney stated. “For millennia, Indigenous peoples have lived on and cared for this land. The next chapter of our country will be written together—in true partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.”
The address blended historical moments with present-day policy goals. Carney highlighted examples of Canadian heroism—from Vimy Ridge and Normandy to the hospitality of Gander, Newfoundland, during 9/11—and positioned them as symbols of Canada’s strength and solidarity in the face of global challenges.
He noted that the world is facing disruption, citing increasing geopolitical instability, fraying international alliances, trade conflicts, and threats to democracy and civil liberties. “Canada is once again at a defining moment,” he said. “We must rise to the occasion.”
Carney also touched on trade issues, referencing Canada’s efforts to push back against international economic uncertainty, including an ongoing trade war initiated by the United States. He noted that while U.S. tariffs and shifting economic policies have affected Canada, recent moves—such as pausing the digital services tax on American tech companies—have paved the way for renewed dialogue and potential cooperation.
Domestically, he reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to breaking down interprovincial trade barriers. “We’re making it easier to live, work, and do business across provinces—so Canadians can truly buy Canadian and work anywhere in the country,” Carney said.
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed his ambitious defence spending targets, committing to invest five per cent of GDP in the military by 2035, exceeding NATO’s current two per cent benchmark. Canada, he emphasized, would not only meet that expectation by year’s end but surpass it in the years to come.
“Canadian leadership is about more than ideals—it’s also about strength and preparedness,” he said. “We will rebuild, rearm, and reinvest in our Armed Forces.”
Carney concluded his address by celebrating the unity and resolve of Canadians amid global uncertainty. He expressed hope for a shared national economic future built on collaboration, energy, innovation, and skilled labour.
“This is the greatest nation on Earth,” he said. “And together, we’ll keep making it even better. Happy Canada Day.”
