Ottawa ( Rajeev Sharma): Mark Carney held a trilateral discussion with Friedrich Merz and Jonas Gahr Støre to discuss global security, NATO priorities, Ukraine, and developments in the Middle East ahead of the upcoming NATO Summit. Building on progress made during their previous meeting in Bardufoss in March, the three leaders reviewed key areas of cooperation and addressed major international challenges facing allied nations.
As close NATO Allies, the leaders outlined priorities for the upcoming NATO Summit, with a focus on strengthening Euro-Atlantic security amid ongoing global threats and instability. Prime Minister Carney highlighted Canada’s plans to establish a Defence, Security, and Resilience Bank aimed at providing multi-year, low-cost financing for defence, security, and resilience initiatives. The proposed institution is expected to support long-term strategic investments and improve allied preparedness.
The leaders also reaffirmed their united support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine, backed by strong security guarantees. They agreed on the need to maintain and increase pressure on Russia to encourage negotiations toward ending the conflict. Discussions also covered the escalating tensions in the Middle East, where the leaders stressed the urgent need for de-escalation, a robust ceasefire, and ensuring free and secure access through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.
The leaders additionally expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which begins next month and will be co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
