Trudeau, Biden to meet virtually to discuss climate change and COVID-19

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Joe Biden will meet virtually on Tuesday, in what will be Biden's first bilateral meeting since becoming president.

A White House document shows that the discussion will range in topics, showing a "road map" of areas with mutual interests, including climate change, COVID, and social justice.

"In this virtual event, the President will highlight the strong and deep partnership between the United States and Canada as neighbors, friends and NATO Allies. The meeting will be an opportunity for the two leaders to review joint efforts in areas of mutual interest such as the COVID-19 response, climate change, and the economic ties that bind our countries, as well as the deep people-to-people bonds we share," the White House said in a statement.

Among the topics not listed are securing vaccines for Canadians, Chinese influence on the global stage including the detention of Canada's two Michaels, or Canada securing an exemption to Biden's aggressive "buy American" rules.

Biden has thus far shown interest in prioritizing US businesses for federal infrastructure and procurement, with some experts concerned about the impact that could have on Canada.

Trudeau has previously shown eagerness to work with Biden, citing common values and an opportunity to "build back better."

Trudeau said last month that he and all Canadians shared values with President Biden, including in the "fight against climate change as a way of growing the economy." This coming after the revoking of the Keystone XL Pipeline project by President Biden, costing Canada a potential 60,000 jobs.

White House Press Sec. Jen Psaki said that the prime minister would be able to bring up any topic he wishes to, as is true "of any bilateral meetings."