Canada signaled a potential thaw in trade tensions with the United States on Thursday, as Canadian Minister Dominic LeBlanc expressed openness to renewed negotiations following recent setbacks. LeBlanc, who is responsible for managing talks with the U.S., indicated that Canada had received clarifications from his American counterpart, raising the possibility of a “mutually beneficial” trade agreement.

LeBlanc’s remarks came after U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer stated in a Wednesday interview that while the United States had concerns about Canadian policies promoting French-language programming on streaming platforms, it did not demand changes to those measures. Greer also recognized Canadian frustrations related to the dispute but advised against retaliatory actions.

“Canada welcomes that the U.S. is now withdrawing its positions on discoverability and labelling and is confirming that measures to promote French language and Canadian culture will not be subject to future U.S. trade actions,” LeBlanc wrote in a post on X. He added that he looked forward to further clarifications from the United States on other outstanding issues, which could pave the way for a trade deal that preserves Canadian sovereignty.

The conciliatory tone was tempered by U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement later Thursday, during a White House news conference, at which he signed an executive order renaming Lake Ontario as Lake America. Standing beside a map bearing the new name, Trump declared that the change was “official, effective immediately.” The gesture appeared to undermine diplomatic efforts and reignite tensions between the two countries.

The recent impasse came less than a week after formal negotiations between Canada and the United States collapsed. Disputes centered largely on Canadian content regulations affecting streaming services and other trade-access issues. While Canadian officials have expressed a desire to reach an agreement that respects cultural policies, the Trump administration has maintained a combative stance at times.

LeBlanc’s statements suggest that despite political provocations, Canadian officials remain willing to engage with U.S. counterparts to find common ground. However, the president’s unilateral action regarding Lake Ontario indicates lingering volatility in bilateral relations as trade discussions continue.