In a surprise move, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met for a \"very productive\" dinner at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida. The unannounced meeting on Friday evening came just days after Trump pledged to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports once he takes office in January.
The potential tariffs have sparked fears of a trade war between the U.S. and its neighbors. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum cautioned earlier this week that Trump's tariff plan could have dire consequences for all three countries and hinted at possible retaliation. 😬
Trump aims to use these tariffs as leverage to encourage Mexico and Canada to help stem the flow of illegal drugs, particularly the deadly opioid fentanyl, and to address issues of illegal immigration into the U.S.
\"We discussed many important topics that will require both Countries to work together to address, like the Fentanyl and Drug Crisis that has decimated so many lives as a result of Illegal Immigration, Fair Trade Deals that do not jeopardize American Workers, and the massive Trade Deficit the U.S. has with Canada,\" Trump shared on Truth Social.
Trudeau responded on social media platform X, expressing optimism about future collaboration: \"Thanks for dinner last night, President Trump. I look forward to the work we can do together, again.\"
According to a Canadian government official, the dinner was positive and wide-ranging, lasting three hours. Despite the friendly tone, Trudeau acknowledged the seriousness of Trump's tariff threats during a news conference in Canada on Friday. \"Donald Trump, when he makes statements like that, he plans on carrying them out,\" he remarked.
Economists have warned that imposing tariffs on imports could increase costs for U.S. consumers. However, Trump believes that tariffs will protect American manufacturers and boost domestic job growth. 💼
The meeting between Trump and Trudeau signals a potential shift in relations and a willingness to address pressing issues collaboratively. Let's hope this spirit of teamwork continues! 🤝
Reference(s):
Trump discusses border, trade with Trudeau after pledging tariffs
cgtn.com
