Canada's newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney severely attacked US President Donald Trump for what he referred to as "unjustified tariffs," claiming that Canada would win the trade war, just like it wins hockey.
During his Sunday victory speech, Carney, who won the leadership of the governing Liberal Party to replace Justin Trudeau, also addressed Trump's offer that Canada should be America's 51st state. "America is not Canada. And Canada will never, ever be part of America in any way, shape, or form. We didn't seek this conflict, but Canadians are always prepared when someone throws down the gauntlet," said Carney, 59.
He went on, "Americans need to know. In commerce, as on the ice, Canada will prevail. But the triumph won't be simple. We are in the midst of the greatest challenge of our lifetime. We will have to accomplish great things. together."
Carney, a former governor of Canada's central bank, also had a shot at Trump, charging that he is trying to damage Canada's economy. "Donald Trump has levied unjustified tariffs on what we make, sell, and how we earn a living. He's trying to hit Canadian workers, families, and businesses. We cannot let him win, and we won't," Carney said.
He continued to claim that Canada's government was in its right when it retaliated with tariffs that were meant to have the largest impact on America. "My government will maintain our tariffs until the Americans respect us… And make credible and reliable commitments toward free and fair trade," he continued.
Carney also cautioned against the possible repercussions of Trump's actions, referencing Trump's suggestion to annex Canada as the 51st state. "Americans want our resources, our water, our land, our country. Think about that for a moment. If they succeed, they will destroy our way of life," he stated.
Carney also pointed out the difference in cultures between the two countries, noting, "America is a melting pot. Canada is a mosaic. America does not recognize differences." He stressed that Canada's identity, including the French language, was precious and should be preserved. "We must protect them; we must promote them. We will never, ever trade them for any trade deal!"
Carney wrapped up by urging Canadians to be bold. "Canadians can give themselves a lot more than Trump can ever take. It will involve unprecedented efforts. It won't be business as usual. We will have to do things we never dreamed possible, at speeds we never thought we could. We will do it for the common good, so all Canadians profit," he stated.
Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on all Canadian products the prior Tuesday, and Prime Minister Trudeau quickly retaliated with 25% tariffs on $30 billion of US imports. Trump two days later exempted Canada and Mexico temporarily from the tariffs until April 2 through an executive order.
Carney, never an elected politician, has taken the Liberal leadership contest initiated in January following Trudeau's resignation after almost ten years in office.
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