The meeting came amid ongoing trade disputes between the U.S. and Canada. Trump has repeatedly criticized Canada's trade policies, claiming they are unfair to American businesses. Trudeau, for his part, has defended Canada's practices and urged the U.S. to avoid protectionist measures.
A key point of contention is Trump's tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. Trudeau has called these tariffs "unfair and unwarranted," while Trump has defended them as necessary to protect American industry.
"We believe that tariffs are not the answer to economic problems," Trudeau said in a statement before the dinner. "We will continue to work with the U.S. to find solutions that benefit both our countries."
Despite the economic tensions, the dinner was seen as an opportunity to improve diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Canada. The two leaders have had a strained relationship in the past, with Trump once calling Trudeau "very dishonest and weak."
"We need to continue to work together on the challenges we face, from trade to security," Trump said before the dinner.
Reports from both sides indicate that the dinner was held in a positive atmosphere. Trudeau described the meeting as "productive," while Trump said they had "a very good conversation."
The outcome of the dinner remains to be seen. It is possible that the two leaders made progress on resolving their trade disputes. However, it is also possible that the tensions will continue.
"It's too early to say whether this dinner will lead to a breakthrough on trade," said Robert Lighthizer, the U.S. Trade Representative. "But it's a positive sign that the two leaders are willing to talk."