Bangla Press Desk: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on Thursday pushed back strongly against U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that “Canada lives because of the United States,” underscoring growing strains between the longtime allies.
“Canada doesn’t live because of the United States. Canada thrives because we are Canadian,” Carney said in a national address in Quebec City ahead of the opening of a new parliamentary session. While rejecting Trump’s remarks, Carney acknowledged the “remarkable partnership” between the two countries.
Trump later responded on his Truth Social platform, announcing he was withdrawing an invitation for Canada to join his proposed “Board of Peace,” a self-described billion-dollar initiative aimed at resolving global conflicts. A Canadian government source said Ottawa would not pay to join the body, despite earlier indications from Carney that he would consider participation.
The exchange reflects escalating diplomatic tensions following Carney’s high-profile speech earlier this week at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. There, the prime minister received a standing ovation after warning of a “rupture” in the U.S.-led, rules-based global order — comments widely interpreted as a veiled critique of Trump’s approach to international affairs.
In Davos, Carney argued that middle powers such as Canada, which prospered during an era of American global dominance, must recognize that “compliance” would no longer shield them from pressure or aggression by major powers.
Trump appeared to take offense, mocking Carney during his own address at the forum.
“I watched your prime minister yesterday. He wasn’t so grateful,” Trump said. “Canada lives because of the United States. Remember that, Mark, the next time you make your statements.”
Addressing Canadians on Thursday, Carney said the country should serve as an example at a time of global “democratic decline.”
“Canada can’t solve all the world’s problems, but we can show that another way is possible,” he said. “The arc of history isn’t destined to bend toward authoritarianism and exclusion.”
Despite political friction, Canada remains heavily dependent on the U.S. market, with more than 75 percent of its exports destined for its southern neighbor. Key sectors such as automotive manufacturing, aluminum, and steel have been affected by Trump’s global tariffs, though the impact has been limited by the continued application of the North American free trade agreement.
Talks to revise that agreement are expected to begin later this year. Trump has repeatedly asserted that the United States does not need Canadian products — a stance that could have major economic consequences for Canada.
Trump has also drawn controversy by repeatedly threatening to annex Canada and by recently sharing an image online depicting Canada, Greenland, and Venezuela under the U.S. flag.
Carney said Canada harbors no illusions about the fragility of the current international environment.
“The world is more divided,” he said. “Former alliances are being redefined — and in some cases, broken.”
Pointing to plans to increase defense spending, the prime minister stressed the need to protect Canada’s sovereignty and borders, adding that the country has a responsibility “to be a beacon — an example to a world that’s adrift.”
BP/TI
