Canada’s 13 premiers are in Washington D.C. to bring a united message to the U.S. government on the impact of a potential trade war on both countries.

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order this week imposing 25 per cent tariffs on all imports of steel and aluminum into the United States—including Canada.

His administration has subsequently indicated that any future tariffs imposed against Canada would be applied on top of the steel and aluminum tariff.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who is leading the Council of the Federation delegation, told reporters in Washington this morning that they’re resolved in bringing the views of Canadians straight to the White House.

“I’m so grateful as Chair, to have such a talented group standing with me…and all different perspectives around the country,” said Ford. “Do you know what everyone agrees on? Is protecting Canada as a whole.”

Energy minister question’s Trump’s ‘end game’

The province’s energy minister says Newfoundland and Labrador, and Canada as a whole, needs to be ready for the impact of tariffs affecting the mining industry.

Minister Andrew Parsons says the United States doesn’t have nickel refineries and is dependent on Canada for nickel – an essential component in the American defense sector.

Fifty per cent of the nickel produced in Newfoundland and Labrador is sent to the U.S. so, Parsons says, it will be interesting to see whether that commodity is in Trump’s crosshairs.

That said, Parsons is not sure the U.S. administration fully understands how integrated the two countries are when it comes to mining resources.

He says that’s why Canada’s premiers are in Washington to impress on the U.S. government how “misguided” their current policy decisions are.