VANCOUVER — Prime Minister Mark Carney made a surprise appearance at the Vancouver Pride parade on Sunday. His visit followed a meeting with British Columbia Premier David Eby and officials from the Vancouver port.

Earlier in the day, Carney met with Peter Xotta, president and CEO of the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, and Joel Werner, chief operating officer of DP World Canada. The meeting included a brief photo opportunity with the executives at the port facility, where a large container ship was present.

Following the port meeting, Carney attended a closed-door session with Premier Eby. This meeting focused on pressing issues, including U.S. tariffs and ongoing tensions in the long-standing softwood lumber dispute.

Afterward, Carney joined the Pride parade, marching approximately one kilometer along the route that began outside B.C. Place Stadium. He expressed that the Pride parade embodies the "essence of Canada," highlighting the celebration of diversity in a "very positive way."

Parade-goers welcomed Carney with loud cheers as he moved along the route. He frequently crossed the street to engage with supporters, accompanied by his security detail. At one point, a drag queen handed him a microphone and thanked him for his presence. Carney responded by stating that the parade was "the best of Canada."

This event showcased the prime minister's commitment to celebrating inclusivity and community spirit.