Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told a group of business and labor leaders that desire to control Canada “is a real thing,” major Canadian news outlets CBC and Toronto Star have reported.
Trudeau made the remarks in a closed-door setting, but they were mistakenly transmitted via loudspeaker.
Trump has frequently said that should become the 51st state and has insulted Trudeau, calling him governor rather than prime minister.
“They’re very aware of our resources, of what we have and they very much want to be able to benefit from those,” Trudeau said. “But Mr. Trump has it in mind that one of the easiest ways of doing that is absorbing our country. And it is a real thing.”
Canada has oil, natural gas, diamonds and many other natural resources. The country is also a major potash producer, which is used in fertilizer to grow crops.
Trudeau also discussed the trade relationship with Canada. Last week, with 25% tariffs on all Canadian imports and a lower 10% tariff on energy.
If such tariffs were to go through, it could drive Canada into a recession due to Canada’s integrated trade economy with the US. It would also drive up the cost of gasoline, groceries and other items for American consumers.
“The strategic reflection we have to have right now is… how we get through, and thrive, and grow stronger over the next four years and into what may be a more challenging long-term political situation with the United States?” Trudeau said earlier in the meeting.
Trump’s trade and annexation threats could lead to Canada seeking stronger economic and political ties with other powers such as China and the .
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