Dominic LeBlanc: “Sometimes you can have a very smooth ride with no turbulence. So I remain optimistic that we'll focus on the latter.”

We’re not negotiating detailed text as we were five, six weeks ago, but we remain in contact with them.

If the prime minister concludes at some point that there’s a deal possible that protects the sovereignty of our country, that would be in the economic interests of the country, then obviously we would be in a position to have that…

Our core focus is on what we can control: building strength at home, diversifying our partnerships abroad, and building Canada strong for all Canadians.

We look forward to further constructive U.S. clarifications on their other positions which would create the possibility of a mutually beneficial trade agreement that respects Canadian sovereignty.