In a significant diplomatic development, Canada’s Ambassador to the United States Kirsten Hillman has declared her intention to resign from her position in the coming year. The announcement comes during a particularly delicate phase in Canadian-American relations, with the crucial review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) currently underway.
Ambassador Hillman, who assumed her role in March 2020, communicated her decision through social media platform X on Monday evening. While acknowledging that no ideal moment exists for such transitions, she expressed confidence in the timing, stating this period allows for the establishment of a new team that will shepherd the trade agreement through its comprehensive review process.
The veteran trade lawyer and career diplomat emphasized her continued availability to Canada’s negotiation team during the challenging months ahead. Her diplomatic tenure encompassed navigating the complex COVID-19 pandemic landscape and playing an instrumental role in securing the release of Canadian citizens Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor from detention in China.
Reactions to her departure have been notably positive from both sides of the border. United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer characterized Ambassador Hillman as ‘a class act,’ while former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau praised her as ‘a real patriot who has served Canadians proudly,’ specifically acknowledging her contributions to resolving trade disputes and strengthening economic ties.
The resignation occurs against the backdrop of substantial trade tensions initiated by President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs on Canadian metals, lumber, and automotive products. These measures form part of a broader protectionist policy agenda that includes a sweeping 35% tariff on all goods, though most Canadian products have remained exempt under the current trade agreement.
Trade negotiations faced additional complications in late October when President Trump suspended talks following his objection to an anti-tariff advertisement commissioned by Ontario and broadcast in American markets. The ongoing CUSMA review process involves public hearings and stakeholder consultations, with all three nations potentially agreeing to renew, renegotiate, or allow the agreement to expire.
While both Canadian and Mexican authorities have indicated their preference for maintaining the existing agreement, and U.S. business interests have expressed similar support during December hearings, President Trump has suggested openness to either letting the pact expire or negotiating an entirely new arrangement. Market analysts and diplomatic observers are closely monitoring the situation, as the outcome will significantly impact North American trade dynamics and economic cooperation.