Canada will increase its global engagement through greater support for international development and trade, even as tensions rose with the US over foreign policy decisions, a federal cabinet minister said Wednesday.
Speaking to Sher-E-Punjab Radio 600 AM, Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State for International Development, said the federal government remains committed to expanding humanitarian aid and strengthening trade partnerships around the world.
“We have many commitments, and you will see a focus on international development and trade after the budget,” said Sarai.
The federal budget is expected to be presented this fall, and officials have signalled an increase in funding for humanitarian aid, particularly in regions affected by conflict and natural disasters.
Sarai’s remarks come amid growing diplomatic friction with the United States. On July 31, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 35 per cent tariff on Canadian imports, citing Canada’s decision to recognize conditional Palestinian statehood.
“Trade deals would be hampered by Canada’s decision to recognize Palestine as a state,” Trump said during the announcement.
Despite the tension, Sarai said Ottawa will not tie humanitarian assistance to political or trade considerations.
“Wherever humanitarian aid is required in cases of natural calamities, Canada will continue to help the affected countries without giving any priority to trade,” he said.
He also confirmed that Canada is attempting to expand aid to Gaza, including airdropped relief, as conflict continues in the region.
“Prime Minister Mark Carney and Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand are trying to explore all diplomatic channels to ensure that the aid reaches wherever it is required,” said Sarai. “We are trying to scale up the aid to Gaza without any interruptions.”
The U.S. has reduced its international aid spending in recent years, Sarai noted, but he said Canada remains “steadfast” in its commitment to global development and humanitarian support.