An obviously tearful Justin Trudeau was spotted struggling to hold back tears in what may be one of his final appearances as Canada's Prime Minister before his Liberal Party chooses a new leader to guide the country through the tariffs imposed by US tariffs under President Trump.
Having served as the country's leader for close to a decade, Trudeau was overcome with emotions as he read his goodbye speech on Thursday. In his address, he confirmed that his loyalty has always been to the Canadian people, indicating that his rule has always sought their welfare and that he will remain committed to them in the future.
"A person to person, I have ensured that each and every day in this office, I put Canadians first, that I have your backs. That's why I am here today to inform you all that we've got you. Even in the final days of this government, we will not disappoint Canadians today and far into the future," Trudeau stated.
His resignation was initially announced in January amidst growing internal conflicts and a drop in public support. Until his replacement takes over, he will remain interim prime minister.
The Liberal Party will choose its new leader on Sunday, who will not only guide the party into the next elections by October but will also have to contend with US President Donald Trump's administration.
In his speech, Trudeau warned against Trump's threats of tariffs, calling on Canadians to unite to endure the economic risks that lie ahead. The two leaders have also had their share of conflicts, with Trump once proposing that Canada be made the 51st US state and calling Trudeau a "Governor."
Trudeau’s speech followed Trump’s decision to temporarily halt new tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, a move aimed at easing pressure on consumers and businesses after the increased taxes shook financial markets. Both Canada and the US had imposed 25% tariffs on each other’s goods, signaling the beginning of a potential trade conflict, now paused until April 2.
Blaming Trump's aggressive policies, Trudeau pointed out that the economic well-being of both Canada and Mexico is key to making Trump's "America First" strategy a success. He asserted that trade between countries and relations between them need to serve both countries equally, in contrast with real estate transactions.
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