The country’s new prime minister, Mark Carney, has been called the “Trump whisperer,” and negotiations have been cordial and professional. But it’s been a wild ride.

Canada’s top diplomat said she aims to finalize a free trade agreement with Southeast Asian nations “as soon as possible,” as the country looks to expand economic ties in the face of tariffs from President Donald Trump.

Trump threatened to escalate tariffs beyond 35% if Canada opts to retaliate with tariffs on U.S. goods. Canadian goods are also subject to sector-specific tariffs, such as 50% levies on steel and aluminum as well as 25% tariffs on non-USMCA compliant autos and auto parts.