Economist Mark Carney formally took office as Canada's new Prime Minister on Friday, replacing Justin Trudeau, reports say.
Carney was sworn in before Governor General Mary Simon, the monarch's official representative and head of state of Canada, King Charles.
Political commentators opine that Carney's appointment is timely, as Canada's relations with the US have grown increasingly tense under the newly returned Donald Trump administration.
Carney, aged 59, brings with him extensive economic experience to the position, having been Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England previously. He was reportedly sworn in on both English and French, the official languages of the country.
Although he has limited political experience, Carney became the leader in the competition for the position of leader of the governing Liberal Party, eclipsing other contenders. His experience in dealing with intricate financial crises has been stressed as a chief strength in leadership.
One of his first tests will be coping with Canada's strained relationship with the US, which experts estimate has hit a record low.
Carney is likely to reorganize his Cabinet, with Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc reportedly moving to the international trade portfolio and Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne becoming Foreign Minister. The move is part of a bid to bolster Canada's alliances in Europe, and especially with London and Paris, where Carney will travel next week.
Taking over from Justin Trudeau, who held the nation for more than nine years, Carney has promised to make Canadian sovereignty his top priority. In a statement, he is said to have claimed that he would only meet Donald Trump if there is "respect for Canadian sovereignty."
In the meantime, attempts are being made to set up a call between Trump and Carney, as Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly confirmed, according to reports.
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