**CIBC Vice-Chair, Global Investment Banking Lisa Raitt in conversation with U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra during an Empire Club event this week. / SCREENSHOT**

U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra used an appearance at an Empire Club of Canada event to promote Donald Trump’s policy agenda and urge deeper Canada-U.S. cooperation.

Describing Trump as a “transformational” leader, Hoekstra said Tuesday in Toronto the U.S. administration is focused on “prosperity, security, and safety,” priorities that align with those of Prime Minister Mark Carney. “The more prosperous we are, the more safe we are, the more secure we are,” he said in a panel conversation with Hon. Lisa Raitt. “You will also feel the same.”

Acknowledging ongoing tensions in the bilateral relationship as a result of U.S. tariffs and Donald Trump’s repetition of 51st state rhetoric — including last week, shortly after Hoekstra told CBC News the issue had been laid to rest — the ambassador said solutions between the two countries will come from direct, top-level dialogue.

‘Optimistic’ message

“The good news for Canada is this is being settled at the highest levels,” he said. “Smart people in a room can come to the right answer.” He expressed confidence in speedy negotiations on a new Canada-U.S. agreement between Trump and Carney, rather than lengthy technocratic processes.

“I’m disappointed that some of the rhetoric has gone to where it has,” he said. “But that’s why I come and I give an optimistic message.” Raitt reminded him that “rhetoric goes both ways” and noted that Trump continued to cast doubt on Canada’s sovereignty.

Hoekstra pointed to areas where he hoped joint progress could be seen, including on critical minerals, defence and auto manufacturing. He added that the U.S. and Canada should both see China, not each other, as the true competitor. “Let’s use the strengths of the U.S. and Canada to beat China,” he said.