Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney warned that trade tariffs are straining ties with the US. CNN
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney warned that the country must significantly cut its reliance on the US as their relationship continues to deteriorate. Speaking after a cabinet meeting in Ottawa on Thursday, Carney said he expected a “fundamentally different relationship” with the US moving forward.
He made these remarks after US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on all cars and car parts imported from Canada. Carney called this move a “direct attack” that violated the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement.
The prime minister stressed that even with future negotiations, the two nations would not return to their previous relationship. He stated that Canada would have to look for new trade partners and adapt to the changing dynamics.
“It’s clear the US is no longer a reliable partner,” Carney said. He added that future Canadian governments would also have to deal with this new reality.
To strengthen international ties, Carney announced plans to collaborate more with other allies. He pointed out that his first official overseas visits would be to France and the UK, highlighting their status as long-standing and trustworthy partners.
Carney also hinted that Canada may impose its own countermeasures. He said his government would reveal a “retaliatory trade action” strategy after Trump’s expected announcement on April 2.
“We’re not going to show our hand just yet,” Carney said, avoiding details about the countermeasures. However, he confirmed that Canada was prepared to respond forcefully if necessary.
The prime minister noted that US tariffs would impact key sectors, including cars, lumber, steel, aluminum, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals. He assured Canadians that his government was ready with a range of measures to protect the country’s economy and workers.
Carney emphasized that Canada would not engage in a tit-for-tat response to every US action. Instead, the government would wait for Trump’s next move before taking broader steps.
Trump and Carney are expected to have a phone conversation in the coming days. While Carney does not plan to visit Washington, he suggested that members of his cabinet might travel there for discussions.
The prime minister’s approach mirrors that of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who also announced that Mexico would hold off on revealing its own counter-tariffs until after Trump’s April 2 announcement.
Carney stressed that Canada would defend itself vigorously, warning that there would be no quick or easy solution in this trade dispute.
“We will respond forcefully. Nothing is off the table to defend our workers and our country,” he said.
To ease the impact of US tariffs, Carney highlighted that his government would continue introducing domestic policies to protect Canadian businesses and workers.
“We are masters in our own home,” he declared, using a slogan from Québec politics to underscore Canada’s determination to remain independent and strong.
