MANILA, Philippines — U.S. President Barack Obama called Canada an “extraordinarily helpful” partner in the fight against climate change.
Obama made the remark after his first formal bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the final day of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation summit.
Their 23-minute meeting covered a range of topics, that also included the fight against Islamic extremism, the refugee crisis and the economy.
The two leaders appeared at ease and amicable, as Obama invited Trudeau to pay his maiden visit to Washington early in the new year on the last full day of Trudeau’s first international trip since being sworn in as prime minister a little over two weeks ago.
But Obama also said that the U.S. and Canada will “both soon to be signatories” to the Trans-Pacific Partnership, even though Trudeau made it clear he wants to consult with Canadians and Parliament before moving forward on the deal.
Obama also said the 43-year-old prime minister will provide “energy and reform” to the Canadian political landscape.