Ottawa, Sept. 4 -- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday (local time) said that Ottawa is ready to negotiate a durable trade agreement with the United States that serves the interests of both countries, while stressing that Canada will continue to protect its workers, families and businesses amid the escalating trade tensions with Washington.

Carney said Canada was not seeking a quick political announcement but a long-term agreement that would benefit both sides.

"We are always going to stand up for what's in the best interest of Canada, Canadian workers, and Canadian families, not look for an easy win, not looking for an announcement, but something that's durable. And that deal is possible; that's in both of our benefits," Ca...