PARIS, France (AFP)— World leaders on Tuesday offered their congratulations and pledged to work closely with Prime Minister Mark Carney after his Liberal Party won Canada’s election.

The Liberals’ victory comes in the context of a trade war with its neighbour the United States, which Carney has vowed to fight fiercely.

– ‘Bond growing stronger’: EU –
“I look forward to working closely together, both bilaterally and within the G7. We’ll defend our shared democratic values, promote multilateralism, and champion free and fair trade,” said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

“The bond between Europe and Canada is strong — and growing stronger.”

– ‘Greater opportunities’: India –
“I look forward to working with you to strengthen our partnership and unlock greater opportunities for our people,” said India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting hopes of a possible reset of fraught relations between New Delhi and Ottawa.

– ‘Mutual respect’: China –
“China is willing to develop China-Canada relations on the basis of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit,” foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said.

– ‘Grateful for support’: Ukraine –
“We are sincerely grateful for Canada’s principled leadership in supporting Ukraine…. We are confident that our partnership will only grow stronger in our shared pursuit of peace, justice, and security,” said Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

– ‘Closest of allies’: UK –
“Congratulations to Mark Carney on your election victory. The UK and Canada are the closest of allies, partners and friends,” said British leader Keir Starmer. “Our partnership is based on shared history and values, with a shared sovereign, and I look forward to strengthening our ties.”

– ‘Stronger alliance’: NATO –
“Congratulations to Prime Minister Mark Carney,” said NATO chief Mark Rutte. “Canada is a valued member of NATO. I look forward to working together to build an even stronger, fairer alliance — investing more in defence and ramping up industrial production so we have what we need to stay safe.”

– ‘Eager to work’: France –
“You embody a strong Canada in the face of the great challenges of our time. France looks forward to further strengthening the friendship that binds our countries. Eager to work alongside you,” said France’s President Emmanuel Macron.