U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he is retracting the invitation extended to Prime Minister Mark Carney to participate in his “Board of Peace” project focused on Gaza. The initiative was introduced by Trump during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, aiming to aid the reconstruction of Gaza amid a transitional governance phase.
While 35 countries have joined the board, Carney had not formally accepted the invitation and was absent from the official launch in Davos as he was engaged in a cabinet retreat in Quebec City. Trump, in a post on his Truth Social platform, stated that Carney’s invitation had been rescinded.
Trump’s post addressed to Prime Minister Carney expressed the withdrawal of the invitation for Canada to partake in the prestigious leadership board. A spokesperson from the Prime Minister’s Office responded with a restrained statement, emphasizing Canada’s support for Trump’s peace efforts in Gaza.
Several key Middle Eastern nations such as Israel, Turkey, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have accepted Trump’s initiative, while traditional European allies like the U.K. and France declined participation citing concerns about certain elements conflicting with the UN charter.
Despite initial indications of acceptance, there were reservations from Canada regarding the board’s structure and the membership fee. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne clarified that Canada does not intend to pay the hefty fee for a permanent position on the board.
The decision to retract Carney’s invitation followed speeches by both leaders at the Davos event. Carney’s speech emphasized the impact of global economic dynamics on middle powers like Canada, while Trump expressed expectations of gratitude from Canada towards the U.S.
In response, Carney asserted Canada’s independence and thriving identity separate from U.S. influence during a speech at the cabinet retreat. The exchange between the leaders occurred as preparations were made for the upcoming review of the trilateral trade agreement involving Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.
