Yes, I'd say throwing in such things as "gender equality" into trade talks (What exactly is supposed to happen with that after the trade talks conclude?)  is largely irrelevant to what the talks are supposed to be about. 

"Unions" though? I thought the Americans were keen on upping labour standards in Mexico. 

And if Canada had wishy-washingly half agreed with the American demands, Harper would undoubtedly be criticizing them for 'caving in'. 

And, sure, why not abandon Mexico and try and cut a two-way deal? I'm sure (as Trump has remarked) the Americans would love to have two bilateral sets of negotiations rather than 3 way negotiations. 

 Harper's comments don't suggest to me he'd do any better at negotiations. 

And remember, this is the guy who locked himself in a washroom on a state visit to Brazil because he wasn't being received in the style he felt he should be. 

How well did that work out, Mr. Harper?