TORONTO, ⁠Feb 16 (Reuters) - Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced ⁠on Monday the appointment of public servant Janice ‌Charette as the next chief trade negotiator to the United States. Canada sends about 70% of its exports to ⁠the United States. CUSMA, also known as ​the United States-Mexico-Canada ‌Agreement, is a continental trade pact that has ⁠shielded much ​of Canada's exports from U.S. tariffs. "As Chief ⁠Trade Negotiator, she will advance Canadian interests and a strengthened trade and investment relationship that benefits workers and industries in both Canada and the United States.”Charette ​has twice served as clerk ⁠of the Privy Council and secretary to the Cabinet, ​according to the statement. The clerk ‌of the Privy Council is ​the head of the civil service in Canada.

Source: The Star February 17, 2026 04:59 UTC