The newly elected leader of the Liberal Party of Canada, Mark Carney, has sharply criticized United States President Donald Trump in his victory speech, rejecting Trump’s suggestion that Canada should become the 51st US state.
Carney declared that “Canada will never, ever… be a part of America in any way, shape or form.”
Carney also condemned Trump’s trade policies, accusing the US president of attempting to weaken Canada’s economy through unjustified tariffs. The economist, who previously served as governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, warned that if Trump succeeded in his objectives, it would lead to the destruction of Canada’s way of life.
The prime minister-designate emphasized Canada’s sovereignty, stating that the Americans “want our resources, our water, our land, our country… if they succeeded, they would destroy our way of life”. Carney framed Canada’s response as part of a broader effort to protect the country’s resources, economy, and sovereignty.
Carney also highlighted the differences between the US and Canadian healthcare systems, saying, “In America, healthcare is a big business… in Canada, it is a right”. This statement underscores the fundamental differences in values and priorities between the two nations.
The newly elected leader vowed to maintain retaliatory tariffs against the US “until the Americans show us respect” . This stance reflects Canada’s determination to defend its economic interests and sovereignty in the face of US trade policies.
Following his swearing-in, Carney is expected to call for an early federal election. This move will likely be seen as an opportunity for Carney to solidify his position as prime minister and to seek a mandate from the Canadian people.
Carney’s ascension to the prime ministership comes after Justin Trudeau announced his decision to step down earlier this year, facing pressure from his own party. Trudeau’s departure marks the end of an era in Canadian politics, and Carney’s leadership will likely bring a new direction and focus to the country.
Carney’s strong stance against Trump’s trade policies and his defense of Canada’s sovereignty will likely have significant implications for Canada-US relations. The relationship between the two nations has been strained in recent years, and Carney’s leadership may mark a new era of assertiveness and independence for Canada.