Ottawa, Canada – Former central banker Mark Carney will officially take office as Canada’s next prime minister on Friday morning, alongside his newly appointed cabinet, the Governor General’s office announced on Wednesday.

Carney, who recently took over as leader of the Liberal Party, has pledged a smooth and swift transition following the resignation of Justin Trudeau in January. Trudeau’s departure marked the end of nearly a decade in power.

A Political Novice Takes Charge

Despite being a newcomer to politics, the 59-year-old former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England secured a resounding victory in the Liberal Party leadership race on Sunday, winning 86 percent of more than 150,000 votes cast.

Carney’s entry into politics comes at a time of heightened trade tensions with the United States. His leadership will be immediately tested by ongoing economic disputes with Washington, including tariffs on steel and aluminum.

Carney’s Strong Stance on US-Canada Trade Relations

In his victory speech, Carney took a defiant stance towards Washington, declaring:

“In trade, as in hockey, Canada will win.”

On Wednesday, he reiterated his readiness to engage with US President Donald Trump, stating he was prepared to renegotiate a trade accord to ease economic tensions.

A 25 percent US tariff on steel and aluminum imports recently took effect, prompting Canada to impose retaliatory tariffs on American goods.

A New Era for Canada

Carney’s transition from economic policymaker to head of government signals a new direction for Canada, as he prepares to tackle pressing issues including trade relations, economic growth, and global diplomacy.

His ability to navigate Canada’s economic and political landscape will be closely watched as he assumes leadership and sets his government’s agenda in the coming weeks.