AsianFin -- Canada must significantly reduce its dependence on the United States as tensions between the two countries escalate, Prime Minister Mark Carney warned on Thursday.
Following a cabinet meeting focused on responding to U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats, Carney told reporters in Ottawa that he foresees a “fundamentally different relationship” emerging.
“It’s clear the U.S. is no longer a reliable partner,” Carney stated. “While comprehensive negotiations might restore some confidence, there will be no returning to the past.” He emphasized that future Canadian governments will have to navigate this new dynamic.
Carney pointed to his recent diplomatic efforts in Europe as part of Canada’s broader strategy. “That’s why I chose to visit France and the United Kingdom—two long-standing, reliable partners and allies,” he said, referencing his first international trip as prime minister.
If U.S. tariffs become permanent, Carney indicated that Canada would need to undertake a “broad renegotiation” of its security and trade relationship with Washington.
“We will need to dramatically reduce our reliance on the United States,” he warned. “This means pivoting our trade relationships elsewhere and achieving transformations at an unprecedented pace.”
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