India, April 30 -- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney spent the first day of his new term grappling with what could be the single-most important issue for him going ahead, dealing with US President Donald Trump.

As he awaited final results from the elections on Monday and the ruling Liberal Party's tally crept up to 169, just three short of the majority mark of 172, Carney connected with Trump on the phone and the two leaders are expected to meet in the near future.

"President Trump congratulated Prime Minister Carney on his recent election. The leaders agreed on the importance of Canada and the United States working together - as independent, sovereign nations - for their mutual betterment. To that end, the leaders agreed to meet in p...