The World is Changing: Path Forward for Canada
by
Yasir Naqvi, MP, Ottawa Centre
As I sat down to write this month’s column, I initially had planned to share my thoughts on the first quarter of the 21st century, and what it has meant for Canada—end of Cold War, proliferation of democracy, prosperity through globalization, the internet revolution, and multilateralism and sustainable development goals. However, 2026 has started with a bang, perhaps marking the beginning of a major shift away from the gains made and norms set since the end of the Second World War. As such, I am compelled to reflect on what lies ahead, steps Canada must take to carve its place in the changing world, and impact on the lives of every-day Canadians.
There is to be no doubt, the world is changing. Some are calling it a period of transition, others refer to as the hinge moment, while Prime Minister Mark Carney describes it as a rupture. No matter what you call it, it is a profound deviation from what we are accustomed to—happening in real-time in front of our eyes.
The biggest change for Canada is our relationship with the United States. Our long-time friend, ally and economic partner has morphed into an adversary. President Donald Trump has waged (what I call a phony) trade war with us. He has chosen to attack Canadian jobs with unjustified tariffs on key industries (like auto, steel, aluminum and lumber). But worse and inexcusable is his threat to Canadian independence. Let’s take him seriously when he repeatedly muses that Canada should be the 51st state. (I want to be absolutely clear—that cannot happen. Jamais.)
This threat becomes even more real when evaluated through the lens of the recently released U.S. National Security Strategy. In it, the Trump Administration not only reaffirms the “America First” approach, but also asserts control over the Western Hemisphere (the so-called “Donroe Doctrine”). The January 3rd attack on Venezuela, and capture of Nicolás Maduro, albeit illegal under international law, makes it clear that words have meaning.
Is Greenland next? It’s no longer a rhetorical question, but a real one. (At the time I am writing this column, Greenland is still a self-governing, autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.) Though, the American drumbeat to acquire (or invade) Greenland is getting louder by the day.
All this has a profound impact on Canada—on our political and economic sovereignty. We may be vulnerable, but we cannot capitulate. Our task is to fortify Canada, and set it up for success in the changing world. In my view, the following are key steps we must take to secure Canada and build prosperity for Canadians:
- Protect our independence. That is why investments in our defence are paramount. Most importantly, we need to secure the Arctic. If the U.S. is successful in controlling Greenland, we are in a more perilous place. As such, not only do we have to stand with Greenland and Denmark (as we have done with Ukraine), we must also be able to defend Canada’s North to assert our sovereignty.
- Build our economy. Far too long, our economic axis has been north-south. That is not viable anymore. We have to reorient our economy on an east-west axis. In other words, build one Canadian economy, as opposed to 13. This means breaking down internal trade barriers so that goods and services can move freely within our borders. It also requires building major, nation-building infrastructure projects across the country. Lastly, we must buy Canadian, and shop locally.
- Diversify our trade. We have always been a trading nation. But, we cannot only sell to the Americans. Canada must build strategic partnerships with other countries around the world. These relationships have to be grounded in our values, but rooted in the practical imperative to create good paying jobs for Canadians. So, we must engage with Europeans, China, India, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and Latin America—but, we must do it with eyes-wide open and appropriate guardrails to protect Canadian interests.
- Unify our country. We cannot take Canadian unity for granted. Referenda in Quebec and Alberta will kneecap Canada. We are sought after because of our stability, democracy, and respect for rule of law. If we get bogged down in debates on national unity, we exacerbate our vulnerability. As such, we must remain understanding of all regions and Canadians.
Having said all this, I remain hopeful and confident about Canada. Our strength is our people. We are a pluralistic society, benefitting from Indigenous peoples’ wisdom, and rich cultural diversity from around the world. Our collective experience teaches us on how to cope with adversity, fight despair, and build successful lives. We have done it before, and together we will do it again. The future belongs to Canada.