Canadian Prime Minister announces old relationship with US is 'over' as he reveals response to Trump tariffs
Mark Carney states major trade agreement in his era is now 'finished' as Trump adds new tariffs on Canada.** Canadian Prime Minister Carney affirmed that Canada will stand firm against hostility from the US or Donald Trump in the current trade dispute between both nations. During a press conference in Ottawa on Thursday (March 27), Carney urged significant shifts in the Canadian economy, apparently to reduce US dependency and collaboration.
He indicated the country needs to "completely rethink our economy," as friction persists between Donald Trump's America and Canada. Trump declared on Wednesday (March 26) he would impose a 25% tax on imported vehicles and parts, stating: "This is permanent."
In response, Canada plans to add more tariffs on US goods and claims they will create "maximum impact" on the country.
Carney described the initial Canada-US Automotive Products Agreement signed in 1965 as the "most significant deal in his lifetime," and stated that with these new US tariffs, their former relationship has ended. The Canadian leader also vowed not to let the US try to weaken the country to enhance US interests.
He stated: "The president of the US is trying to completely change his economy, it affects our economy and the global economy too."
"I understand and value his aim to help American workers, but I disagree with him that this is the right approach."
"I refuse any efforts to weaken Canada, to exhaust us, to destroy us so that America can control us, that will never occur."
Mark Carney stated Canada will counter Trump's new tariffs (Win McNamee/Getty Images)
"Our answer to these recent tariffs is to resist, is to defend and to develop."
"We will challenge the US tariffs with retaliatory trade measures of our own, that will create maximum effect in the United States and minimal effect here in Canada."
Previously, Carney stated Canada will not think about removing these tariffs until the US shows proper respect. He also admitted that Canadians might face "difficult times" because of these US actions, a country he suggests they can no longer rely on, but he also mentioned that the nation always stands ready to defend itself.
Earlier this month, as tensions grew between both countries, Carney said: "We're moving past the surprise, but let us always remember the lessons: we must care for ourselves and we must care for each other. We need to unite during the hard times ahead."
