Conservative MP Jamil Jivani, a longtime friend of U.S Vice-President JD Vance, is in Washington this week to advocate for Canada-U.S. relations after multiple unsuccessful emails to members of the Liberal front bench.

The Bowmanville-Oshawa North MP says he plans to meet with General Motors representatives and other automotive and manufacturing heavyweights. He will also attend the National Prayer Breakfast in the U.S. capital on Thursday — an annual gathering of thousands of politicians and power brokers.

"I'm reaching out to everyone I know," Jivani said, adding that he is still confirming meetings with political contacts throughout the week.

Canadian politicians across the spectrum have attended the prayer breakfast in previous years. But Jivani is offering his unique experience as a friend of Vance. The pair met at Yale Law School and have maintained a friendship.