Why is Canada's Ambassador to the U.S. resigning?

Ambassador Kirsten Hillman is resigning to allow a new envoy to oversee the upcoming 2026 review of the USMCA free trade agreement.

What is the USMCA and when is its review?

The USMCA, or United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, is a free trade pact between the three North American countries. It is scheduled for review in 2026.

How important is U.S.-Canada trade?

U.S.-Canada trade is critically important, with over 75% of Canada's exports going to the United States, making it one of the most trade-dependent relationships globally.

Home / Business and Economy / Canada Envoy Quits Amid Trade Pact Review

Canada Envoy Quits Amid Trade Pact Review

10 Dec

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Summary

Ambassador Kirsten Hillman resigns after six years representing Canada in the U.S.
Hillman's departure precedes the mandatory 2026 review of the USMCA free trade agreement.
Canada-U.S. trade is critical, with over 75% of Canadian exports bound for the U.S.

Canada Envoy Quits Amid Trade Pact Review

Canada's Ambassador to the U.S., Kirsten Hillman, has announced her resignation, set to take effect next year. Serving for six years, Hillman stated it is an opportune moment for a new envoy to manage the upcoming review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), scheduled for 2026. Her departure marks the end of a significant diplomatic tenure.

Prime Minister Mark Carney acknowledged Hillman's substantial contributions, noting she laid crucial groundwork for Canada's position in the impending USMCA review. Her service spanned significant trade negotiations during the Trump administration and involved complex diplomatic resolutions, including securing the release of detained Canadians from China.

The USMCA review is particularly significant given Canada's deep economic integration with the U.S. More than 75% of Canadian exports are destined for the U.S. market, highlighting the vital importance of this trade relationship for Canada's economy. Prime Minister Carney has expressed intentions to diversify trade by increasing non-U.S. commerce over the coming decade.