An unexpected scene unfolded in Etobicoke Monday: Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford and Prime Minister Mark Carney, once publicly at odds, shared pizza slices and conversation at a local Pizza Nova. The meeting signaled a potential thaw in a relationship that had recently become strained, offering a glimpse of unity amidst pressing national concerns.
The two leaders reportedly spent nearly an hour discussing critical issues facing the country, from the future of Ontario’s vital auto sector to the development of crucial mineral resources like those found in the Ring of Fire. They also addressed the complexities of energy development, seeking common ground on paths forward.
“We’re all about Team Canada,” Ford declared to reporters, framing the meeting as a demonstration of national solidarity. He emphasized the familial nature of their dynamic, acknowledging disagreements are natural but ultimately overshadowed by a shared commitment to the country’s success.
Carney echoed this sentiment, playfully suggesting the discussion was “twice as productive” as the Premier’s own assessment. Both men appeared eager to project an image of collaboration, a stark contrast to the recent friction that had characterized their interactions.
The recent discord stemmed from Carney’s decision to lift tariffs on Chinese vehicles, a move intended to open markets for Canadian canola and other agricultural products. Ford vehemently opposed the decision, fearing its impact on Ontario’s auto industry and expressing frustration over a perceived lack of consultation.
This wasn’t the first instance of a fluctuating relationship between the two. Last summer, a more relaxed atmosphere prevailed during a late-night gathering with other premiers at a Muskoka resort, complete with Ford Nation apparel and a campfire setting. It was there, Ford noted, that genuine progress often occurs – through candid, one-on-one conversations.
Ford openly expressed respect for Carney’s intelligence and business acumen, believing a pragmatic, business-like approach is essential for effective governance. He highlighted their shared values and a mutual desire to achieve tangible results, regardless of political obstacles.
While the relationship has been marked by its ups and downs, Ford has indicated a greater level of trust in Carney compared to his predecessor. This sentiment appears to be shared by other provincial leaders, suggesting a broader shift in dynamics within Canadian federal-provincial relations.
The Pizza Nova meeting, therefore, represents more than just a casual lunch. It’s a potential turning point, a deliberate effort to bridge divides and forge a more collaborative path forward for Canada, one slice at a time.
