
Amid trade war, Canada's new PM says he'll speak soon with Trump for first time
The Hindu
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responds to U.S. President Donald Trump's auto import tariffs, emphasizing sovereignty and retaliation.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday (March 27, 2025) said he would speak with U.S. President Donald Trump in the coming days after the latter announced 25% tariffs on auto imports.
Mr. Carney, who hasn't spoken with Mr. Trump since becoming Canada's new leader nearly two weeks ago, said the U.S. president reached out on Wednesday (March 26, 2025) night to schedule a call.
"We will be speaking soon, certainly in the course of the next day or two," Mr. Carney said, adding that Mr. Trump has to respect Canada's sovereignty.
"That's not much to ask, but apparently it's a lot for him," he said.
Mr. Trump has declared a trade war on Canada and continues to call for the United States' northern neighbour to become the 51st U.S. state, a position that has infuriated Canadians.
"It is clear that the United States is no longer a reliable partner. It is possible that, with comprehensive negotiations, we will be able to restore some trust, but there will be no turning back. We will need to dramatically reduce our reliance on the United States. We will need to pivot our trade relationships elsewhere," Carney said.
The former central banker was sworn in as Canada's new Prime Minister on March 14. It's unusual for a U.S. president and Canadian prime minister to go so long without talking after a new leader takes office.