Amid the ongoing trade war between the United States and Canada, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said that the US is no longer a reliable partner and that Canada will need to “dramatically reduce reliance” on its neighbour.
The remarks by the former central banker, who was sworn in as Canada's new prime minister on March 14, came after US President Donald Trump announced 25 per cent tariffs on auto imports.
"It is clear that the United States is no longer a reliable partner. It is possible that, with comprehensive negotiations, we will be able to restore some trust, but there will be no turning back. We will need to dramatically reduce our reliance on the United States. We will need to pivot our trade relationships elsewhere."
Carney said that Canada will respond to Trump’s auto tariffs with its own trade actions, but did not specify the trade actions.
Trump had earlier announced 25 per cent tariffs on Canada's steel and aluminium and is threatening tariffs on all Canadian products (and on other trading allies) on April 2.
Carney, who has not spoken to Trump since becoming Canada's new PM, said the US president reached out on Wednesday night to schedule a call. He said that he would speak with Trump soon, but added that the latter has to respect Canada's sovereignty.