Desk report
US President-elect Donald Trump has mockingly referred to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the “Governor of Canada.” Trump made the remarks in a post on his own social media account, Truth.
In the Truth post, Trump wrote, “I had a great time having dinner with the two great Governors of Canada, Justin and I. I look forward to meeting with the Governor again so we can continue our in-depth discussions on tariffs and trade. The results will be great for everyone!”
On Tuesday, the US media outlet The Hill reported that Trump has threatened to impose a 25 percent tariff on all goods from Canada and Mexico and has said he will increase tariffs on China.
Meanwhile, the Associated Press reported that Trudeau, in response to Trump’s tariff threat at an event at the Halifax Chamber of Commerce on Monday, said, “Americans are starting to understand that if the United States imposes tariffs on Canada, the cost of living will increase significantly.”
Trudeau also said, “If the United States imposes such tariffs, Canada will take countermeasures. But working with Trump this time will be a little more challenging. Because his team’s plan is much clearer after this election.”
It is known that Trudeau and Trump spoke by phone last month. Trudeau described this as a “good conversation.” In addition, Trudeau went to Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida earlier this month. Both described the meeting as “productive.”
In an interview on NBC News’ “Meet the Press” on Sunday, Trump said he could not guarantee that his tariffs would raise the cost of living for Americans.
Economists have warned of the impact of the tariffs on key allies like Canada, Mexico and China. Trump has played down those concerns.
Tensions remain over Trump’s comments and Trudeau’s response. The situation could pose new challenges for trade and international relations.
