The Canadian government responded to the threats from the elected U.S. President, Donald Trump, to impose new tariffs on products coming from Mexico, Canada, and China, by reaffirming its commitment to maintaining a strong trade relationship with the United States.

Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, Chrystia Freeland, stated: We prioritize the security and safety of the shared border with the United States.

Freeland also emphasized that the Canadian government places great importance on the security of the shared border with the United States, noting that there is a clear plan in place to ensure border safety and control the movement of people between the two countries. She declared that the priority is to ensure that the border remains safe and organized in the interest of Canadians.

Freeland added that the government is working to address any potential consequences of policies that may be implemented by the elected U.S. President, Donald Trump, which could affect Canada. She also affirmed that the government is aware of the challenges related to the influx of undocumented immigrants or changes in trade movement, and is prepared to face any developments in this regard.

The Deputy Prime Minister of Canada, Chrystia Freeland, highlighted the importance of the security and safety of the shared border between Canada and the United States amid the political developments that may arise with the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States.

Freeland also affirmed that the Canadian government is ready to address potential challenges related to new U.S. policies, particularly concerning immigration and trade.

Details of Chrystia Freeland's statements

1. Ensuring border control:

Freeland indicated that the Canadian government seeks to enhance control over who enters the country, stressing the importance of making immigration decisions solely at the Canadian level.

2. Preparations to face the impacts of U.S. policies:

There are Canadian concerns regarding Trump's policies related to the deportation of undocumented immigrants, which may lead to a significant influx of them towards the Canadian border, putting additional pressure on social services and border regions.

3. Strengthening trade relations:

Canadian officials, including Housing Minister Sean Fraser, emphasized the need to maintain an open trade relationship with the United States, alongside enhancing border measures to ensure the security of both parties.

Regional and international reactions:

• Quebec Province: Quebec Premier François Legault warned of “potential disruptions” that the province may face as a result of new U.S. policies, calling on the federal government to prepare adequately.

• Canada-U.S. cooperation: Canada calls for increased efforts to ensure coordination with the United States amid rising discussions about imposing new tariffs by the Trump administration, which could impact trade between the two countries.

Summary:

Canada is working hard to ensure that the shared border remains safe and organized, while being prepared to address any consequences arising from changes in U.S. policies. The government is focused on protecting its national interests, particularly concerning trade and immigration.

This came as part of statements made by Canadian government officials, who emphasized that Canada will continue to defend its economic interests, especially in the context of the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement).

The Canadian stance:

1. Emphasizing coordination with the United States: Canadian officials confirmed that despite Trump's statements, Canada remains committed to strengthening the bilateral trade relationship with the United States, and any actions that harm this relationship will be met with balanced responses from the Canadian side.

2. Protecting economic interests: The Canadian government affirmed its readiness to protect domestic industries, particularly the automotive and agricultural sectors that may be affected by proposed tariffs.

3. Communicating with international partners: Canadian officials noted that they are monitoring developments in negotiations with the United States and will work to ensure that trade between the two countries remains organized and fair, while safeguarding Canada's interests in bilateral agreements.

Upcoming challenges:

• U.S. policies could lead to increased tariffs on certain Canadian goods, significantly disrupting trade between the two countries.

• If tariffs are imposed, negative repercussions are expected in sectors such as automotive and lumber, which are among the key areas linking Canada with the United States.

These statements come at a sensitive time as both Canadian and American sides look for mechanisms to overcome any trade challenges that may arise due to these potential policies.