Prime Minister Mark Carney is defending his recent speech at the World Economic Forum amidst controversy sparked by comments from the U.S. administration. He emphasized his stance during a press conference on Parliament Hill, reiterating that his remarks in Davos were clear and focused on significant global issues.
Details of the Davos Speech
In his speech, Carney addressed the ramifications of changing U.S. trade policies. He noted that Canada was the first to recognize these shifts and responded accordingly. His comments received international recognition for their depth and insight into economic relations.
U.S. Response to Carney
Following the speech, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent alleged that Carney had “aggressively” retracted some of his statements during a phone conversation with President Trump. Bessent’s comments were made during an interview on Fox News, where he characterized Carney’s position as a retreat from his earlier assertive rhetoric.
Conversation Between Leaders
Carney confirmed that he had a productive conversation with Trump on Monday but denied retracting any parts of his Davos speech. When pressed on whether he walked back his statements, he maintained his original position without direct acknowledgment of Bessent’s claims.
International Trade Dynamics
- Carney warned against the use of economic integration as a weapon by major powers.
- He stated that the “old order is not coming back,” implying a need for new strategies in global trade.
Trump’s Remarks
Trump’s reaction to Carney’s speech included a pointed reminder: “Canada lives because of the United States.” He also threatened significant tariffs on Canadian goods if trade negotiations with China progressed, despite having previously labeled such agreements positively.
Canada’s Stance on Trade
Despite the rising tensions, Carney has clarified that Canada is not pursuing a free trade deal with China. This statement seeks to quell any speculation regarding Canada’s approach to international trade agreements in the current political climate.
This ongoing situation highlights the complex interplay between Canada and the U.S. as they navigate evolving trade relationships in a changing global economy. More updates on this story are expected as it develops.
