Canada's Foreign Minister (FM) Mélanie Joly expressed confidence in Canada's ability to win the trade war with the US, sparked by tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. In an interview with the BBC, Joly stressed that Canada, as the largest customer of the US, holds significant leverage. "We buy more from the Americans than China, Japan, the UK, and France combined," she said.
The US has imposed 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada, with Trump threatening further tariffs on April 2.
Joly noted that the interconnected economies mean both Canadians and Americans feel the impact. She believes that American citizens, bearing the cost of tariffs, could pressure lawmakers to end the trade war.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has vowed to implement reciprocal tariffs if the US moves forward with additional measures. The escalating trade conflict has fueled frustration in Canada, prompting protests like the "elbows up" demonstration in Toronto, a nod to Canada's hockey culture, symbolizing resistance against Trump's policies.
Joly also discussed the upcoming federal election, suggesting that Canadians are looking for a leader with strong values to counter Trump's tariff threats. The election is expected to be a showdown between Prime Minister Carney and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
Trump's tariffs, part of his economic vision to boost US manufacturing and reduce trade deficits, have sparked controversy and market volatility. Despite the risk of recession, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick defended the tariffs, calling them "worth it."
With both American and Canadian jobs at stake, Joly remains optimistic that domestic pressure from US citizens will ultimately end the trade conflict.
Source: BBC
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