Ottawa [Canada]: In his first press conference following a decisive election victory, newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney firmly dismissed former US President Donald Trump’s provocative suggestion that Canada become the 51st US state.
“It’s important to distinguish wants from reality,” Carney said, underscoring Canada’s clear commitment to sovereignty. He pointed to his resounding election win as evidence of Canadians’ preference for an independent and assertive national identity.
Trump, who has repeatedly mocked Canada’s political leadership and once referred to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the “Governor of Canada,” has suggested that Canada would benefit from becoming a US state—a notion Carney flatly rejected.
Tough Talks Ahead with US
Carney confirmed he will visit the White House next week to meet with President Trump. Key topics will include:
- Trade tariffs, particularly on aluminum, minerals, autos, and energy
- Fentanyl trafficking and related US-imposed tariffs
- Military spending and defense cooperation
“There’ll be zigs and zags,” Carney remarked. “I will fight for the best deal and will accept the best deal for Canada.”
On the controversial fentanyl-related tariffs, Carney noted:
“We do not understand why they are still in place. Those negotiations will be complicated.”
Canada Holds Its Ground
Carney was clear that Canada is open to cooperation, but will not concede its national interests. He warned against moves that would divide the North American market, implying that Canada has alternative partnerships if the US adopts a protectionist stance.
“That would not be the right move. But if that is what the US President wants, Canada has other options, and that is clear.”
While Carney avoided revealing specific strategies, he stressed that Canada would pursue win-win agreements but would not tolerate unilateral impositions.