Last-Minute Diplomatic Push Aims to Shield Canadian Economy
With just days left before U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canadian imports take effect, a high-level Canadian delegation is in Washington making a final push to prevent the economic fallout.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, Public Safety Minister David McGuinty, and Immigration Minister Marc Miller are engaging with key Republican lawmakers and members of Trump’s administration in a bid to halt the looming 25 percent tariffs on Canadian goods.
Trump has signaled his readiness to impose the tariffs as early as Saturday, citing concerns over border security and what he claims is a failure by Canada and Mexico to curb illegal migration and drug trafficking.
In a parallel effort, Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc sent a video message Thursday to Trump’s nominee for commerce secretary outlining Canada’s extensive border security initiatives.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has vowed a swift response should the U.S. move forward with the tariffs, emphasizing that Canada will explore every available option to protect its economy and trade interests.