Ottawa is assessing new U.S. trade measures while seeking to strengthen Canada and diversify its international partnerships.

Canada said Tuesday it remained open to renewed trade talks with Washington after U.S. President Donald Trump signed measures restricting imports of a range of Canadian products, further escalating the bilateral trade dispute.

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Ottawa is assessing the new tariffs and import restrictions while maintaining that any future negotiations should lead to a more secure and mutually beneficial trading relationship.

Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s minister responsible for trade with the United States, said protecting Canadian workers, farmers, families and businesses from what he called unjustified U.S. actions remained a priority for the government.

LeBlanc also said Canada would focus on strengthening the country and diversifying its international partnerships. He said he was in contact with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.

“When the United States is ready to engage, our government will work in good faith and constructively to achieve a more secure and mutually beneficial trading relationship that fully respects Canadian sovereignty,” LeBlanc said.

Trump signed several presidential proclamations on Tuesday blocking imports of a range of Canadian goods, including certain motorcycles, dairy products and alcoholic beverages.

The new tariffs include a 50% levy on products such as boats, furniture, cheese and aluminum goods. They are due to take effect on Sept. 15, while the import restrictions will begin on Sept. 29.

Canada has also imposed retaliatory tariffs on about C$28 billion ($20 billion) worth of U.S. products. Ottawa introduced the measures in response to the 50% tariffs Washington imposed the previous month.

Despite the latest escalation, Canada said it remained prepared to resume negotiations with the United States when Washington was ready to engage.

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