Canada’s Opportunity to Become a Mid-Powerhouse in the Western Hemisphere

By Zubair Choudhry, President & CEO of RPA Canada

Canada is moving in the right direction, but now more than ever the country must remain united and focused on its long-term national interests. In an increasingly uncertain global environment marked by geopolitical tensions, economic realignment, and shifting alliances Canada has a unique opportunity to strengthen its position as a mid-power economic and political powerhouse between the United States and the broader Western Hemisphere.

National Unity in Times of Global Threats

At moments when a nation’s sovereignty, economic security, and geopolitical stability are at stake, political divisions must give way to a shared sense of purpose. History shows that countries facing external pressure are strongest when their political institutions work in harmony toward a common national objective.

Canada is no exception. Recent developments illustrate how cross-party cooperation can strengthen national resilience. Mark Carney’s commitment to mobilize $35 billion in investment to defend and develop Canada’s Arctic region reflects a renewed focus on northern sovereignty. This direction aligns with earlier priorities advanced under former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, whose northern strategy emphasized security, infrastructure, and Canada’s presence in the Arctic. Although some of those initiatives slowed with changes in government, the renewed attention to the North demonstrates that safeguarding Canada’s Arctic is a long-term, cross-partisan national interest.

The fact that a policy direction initiated under one government is now being advanced by another is a positive sign of continuity and unity. It shows that when Canada’s sovereignty is at stake, political leaders can converge around shared priorities.

Recent shifts in party affiliation by individual Conservative and NDP MPs have also been interpreted by some observers as a sign of a broader desire for stability and national cohesion. These decisions, viewed through a national-interest lens, reflect a recognition that Canada benefits when its federal institutions project unity particularly at a time when the country must demonstrate strength, predictability, and solidarity to international partners and investors. Green Party leaders have also through their support behind the Canadian government as a show of solidarity and Canadian unity.

Similarly, the recent trip by the Leader of the Official Opposition to Europe can be understood as part of a wider effort to reinforce Canada’s global presence. International outreach by senior Canadian political figures whether in government or opposition can help signal continuity and stability to allies. Such engagement underscores the idea that Canada’s credibility as a mid-power is strengthened when its political leaders project unity abroad, even while maintaining healthy democratic debate at home.

In times of foreign economic coercion, military tension, and shifting global alliances, Canada’s political leaders whether in government or opposition carry a responsibility that transcends party lines. The Official Opposition, along with the second and third parties in Parliament, can play a critical role by demonstrating solidarity on matters of national security, sovereignty, and economic resilience.

A united political class signals to the world that Canada is stable, serious, and prepared to defend its interests. It also reassures allies that Canada is a reliable partner and demonstrates to adversaries that attempts to divide or pressure the country will not succeed.

Canada’s Foundation of Stability

For decades, Canada’s success has been built on stability, democratic governance, and strong economic institutions. While political debates occasionally highlight regional divisions, the reality is that Canada’s greatest advantage lies in its unity and cooperative federal system. When Canada acts as one country with a coordinated economic strategy, its global influence becomes far more significant.

Even in Quebec, support for separatism has been declining in recent years, reflecting a growing recognition that remaining part of Canada provides stronger economic and social opportunities. Similarly, discussions about Western alienation are often amplified in political discourse. While Western Canada certainly has legitimate concerns about resource policies, infrastructure, and economic development, the notion that separation would strengthen the region is misleading.

An independent Alberta, for example, would likely face far greater economic and political pressure from the United States than it does today within a united Canada. As part of the Canadian federation, provinces benefit from a large national economy, shared institutions, financial stability, and international trade agreements that would be difficult to replicate independently.

Canada’s true strength lies in its ability to balance regional diversity with national unity.

Strategic Position Between the United States and the Hemisphere

Geographically and economically, Canada occupies one of the most strategic positions in the world. Sharing the longest undefended border with the United States gives Canada unparalleled access to the world’s largest consumer market. At the same time, Canada maintains strong diplomatic and economic relationships with Europe, Latin America, and Asia.

This position allows Canada to act as a bridge between the United States and the wider Western Hemisphere. As global supply chains shift and countries seek stable partners, Canada can play an increasingly important role as a trusted hub for trade, finance, and innovation.

With its abundant natural resources, advanced banking system, strong rule of law, and highly educated workforce, Canada offers the key ingredients required for sustainable economic leadership.

Expanding Global Outreach

The current outreach efforts by the Canadian Prime Minister and federal government reflect a recognition that Canada must expand its economic engagement with the world. Through international trade missions, diplomatic initiatives, and investment partnerships, Canada is opening new opportunities for trade, technology collaboration, and foreign investment.

These efforts are particularly important in an era where countries are seeking diversified economic partnerships. As geopolitical tensions reshape the global economy, Canada’s reputation as a stable and predictable partner becomes an increasingly valuable asset.

Canada as a Safe Haven for Investment

Global instability often drives capital toward stable economies. With unrest and uncertainty continuing in regions such as the Middle East, investors are increasingly looking for countries that provide political stability, transparent institutions, and reliable economic conditions.

Canada has long been recognized as one of the safest jurisdictions in the world for investment. Its banking system is among the strongest globally, its legal framework is transparent and dependable, and its regulatory environment promotes both stability and innovation.

In times of global uncertainty, Canada frequently becomes a safe haven for foreign investment, particularly in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, technology, and real estate. Increased investment flows into Canada can further strengthen economic growth, create jobs, and expand opportunities for innovation.

Strengthening the Internal Economy

Another important initiative currently underway is the federal government’s effort to strengthen Canada’s internal market through policies such as the proposed One Canadian Economy Act. Historically, internal trade barriers between provinces have limited the efficiency and competitiveness of Canada’s domestic economy.

The passage of this legislation aimed at promoting free trade between provinces, eliminating barriers to labour mobility, and countering monopolistic practices within regulated professions would represent a major structural reform. By ensuring that tradespeople, professionals, and businesses can operate freely across provincial borders, Canada would unlock significant economic potential that has long been constrained by fragmented rules and protectionist provincial systems.

This approach aligns with long-standing calls from economists, business leaders, and policy experts who have argued that Canada’s internal market must function more like a single national economy. Under a future Carney government, such legislation would signal a commitment to modernizing Canada’s economic architecture and strengthening the country’s competitiveness.

A more integrated national market would also support Canada’s ability to attract foreign investment particularly in sectors such as critical minerals, oil and gas, and advanced manufacturing. Investors look for jurisdictions with predictable rules, efficient labour mobility, and unified regulatory frameworks. Strengthening internal economic integration will not only benefit Canadian businesses but also enhance Canada’s reputation as a competitive global economy.

Building Bridges Across the Country

Canada’s future success will depend on its ability to build stronger bridges between regions. The economic strengths of different parts of the country complement each other.

• Western Canada contributes significantly through energy production, agriculture, and natural resources.

• Central Canada drives financial services, manufacturing, and technological innovation.

• Atlantic Canada continues to expand opportunities in shipping, energy, and emerging technology sectors.

• Northern Canada holds vast untapped potential in critical minerals and natural resources.

When these regional strengths work together, Canada becomes far more powerful than any individual region acting alone.

Political leaders, business organizations, and civil society groups all have an important role to play in fostering greater collaboration between East and West. By strengthening national unity and encouraging economic cooperation, Canada can unlock its full potential.

A United Canada Is a Strong Canada

In a world where geopolitical competition is intensifying, mid-sized nations with stable institutions and strong economic systems are gaining influence. Canada has all the ingredients required to become a leading mid-power in the Western Hemisphere.

By strengthening internal economic integration, expanding international trade partnerships, and maintaining national unity, Canada can position itself as a reliable partner and a centre for investment, innovation, and economic cooperation.

Rather than focusing on regional divisions, Canadians should focus on the opportunity ahead: building a country that is strong, united, and confident in its global role.

If Canada continues to strengthen its economic foundations, foster collaboration across regions, and demonstrate political solidarity on matters of national sovereignty, it can become a powerful and respected force in the international community capable of balancing relationships, promoting prosperity, and contributing to stability across the Western Hemisphere.

A united Canada is not only stronger at home it is stronger in the world.