Prime Minister says future U.S. partnership must be on Canada’s terms, not Trump’s—and eyes deeper ties with Europe, UK
OTTAWA — In a pointed message aimed at former U.S. President Donald Trump, Canada’s Prime Minister made it clear this week that any future cooperation between the two nations must be based on mutual respect and national sovereignty—not political theatrics or outdated power dynamics.
“We’re two sovereign nations,” he said. “There’s a strong economic and security partnership available, but it will look very different from the past. It has to be on our terms.”
The Prime Minister stressed that Canada is no longer waiting on Washington. Instead, he pointed to a broader strategy: rebuilding alliances with European nations and strengthening trade and security partnerships globally.
“Not Going as a Tourist”
Asked whether he would visit Trump if he were to return to the White House, the PM was candid.
“I’ve already been to the White House and Florida. I won’t be going for sightseeing. I’ll visit when there’s serious work to be done—and when there’s real respect for Canada’s sovereignty.”
He also called out unrealistic expectations from Trump’s camp, including past rhetoric about territorial ambitions.
“That’s never going to happen—not with Canada, not with Panama, not with Greenland. The U.S. needs to recognize what we bring to the table.”
Why Canada Matters to the U.S.
The Prime Minister didn’t hold back on Canada’s strategic value:
- Top trading partner for 40+ U.S. states
- Supplier of vital conventional energy and critical minerals
- Source of over 70% of U.S. fertilizer
“We expect respect—and we’ll get it. Then we can talk.”
Turning East: Trade with UK, EU on the Rise
Shifting the focus to international trade, the Prime Minister confirmed Canada is prioritizing deals with “reliable partners”—highlighting Europe and the UK.
“With the UK, over 95% of trade is already tariff-free. But there’s room for deeper integration, especially in defense and innovation.”
He noted that post-Brexit trade expansion in the UK has been slower than expected, but emphasized that Canada sees opportunity for both countries.
Pivotal G7 Summit Ahead
The upcoming G7 summit could prove critical, coming just before key deadlines on trade and tariffs.
“The global trade landscape has shifted. The G7—some of the most like-minded democracies in the world—will be tested. It’s time to figure out what’s next.”
With a NATO summit shortly after and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy expected at the G7, the Prime Minister signaled Canada’s readiness to play a leading role.
From Central Bank to Centre Stage
Closing the interview, the former Governor of the Bank of Canada and Bank of England reflected on his past roles—and his current ambitions.
“I’ve been privileged to serve in crucial moments. Now, I’m honored to be seeking to lead Canada through another one.”
