Ottawa, Feb. 20 -- Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne declared that Canada is "taking back control of our Canadian economy" amid uncertainties surrounding the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), emphasising diversification through strengthened ties with Asian trade partners.

He stressed Canada's readiness to negotiate while highlighting the agreement's vital role for North American competitiveness, noting that Canada buys more from the U.S. than China, Japan, and the UK combined.

Champagne dismissed direct concerns over the reports, focusing instead on global opportunities after recent meetings with European finance ministers.

This aligns with broader government efforts, including negotiations for a Canada-ASEAN Fr...