"The US has fundamentally shifted its trade policy, raising tariffs to levels only seen during the Great Depression (late 1930s). Many of Canada's previous strengths, based on its close relationship with the US, have now become weaknesses, and we need to address these weaknesses," Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney commented on bilateral relations in a video released on 19/4.

He argued that Canada cannot control disruptions from its neighbor, nor can it stake its future on the hope that the situation will soon stabilize.

The prime minister stated the country must aim for independence from any single nation, amid a world that is "becoming more dangerous and divided." He stated he would regularly update citizens on the government's efforts to strengthen the economy and protect sovereignty.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney answers questions in parliament on 15/4. Photo: AP.

In the video, Carney also held a model of General Isaac Brock, who led the fight against American forces in 1812, and delivered the message, "Historically, Canada has faced similar threats to those today." He also mentioned Indigenous leader Tecumseh, who united Indigenous communities against US expansion in the 19th century.

The Canadian prime minister stated that hoping for the "US to return to normal" is not a viable strategy; instead, Canada needs to build a country strong enough to withstand external fluctuations.

"Hope is not a plan, and nostalgia is not a strategy. The US has changed, and we need to respond. We need to regain control of our security, our borders, and our future," he said.

Carney, who took office in 2025 following a campaign based on a tougher stance towards Washington, stated that Ottawa is promoting economic diversification, including strengthening cooperation with partners like China to reduce dependence on the US.

The Canadian government also aims to attract new investment, expand clean energy capacity, reduce domestic trade barriers, increase defense spending, and improve housing access for its citizens.

US-Canada relations are experiencing significant shifts after decades of deep economic integration, following President Donald Trump's imposition of numerous tariffs on both adversaries and allies, disrupting global trade.

These tariffs have affected Canadian automotive and steel workers and caused businesses to delay investment due to increased instability. Furthermore, Trump's remarks about Canada potentially becoming the 51st US state also met with widespread opposition among the Canadian public.

Carney's Liberal Party recently secured a parliamentary majority after special elections last week, providing a stronger mandate to adjust policy, especially regarding trade relations with the US. A review of the trilateral trade agreement between the US, Canada, and Mexico is scheduled for July.

By Thanh Danh (AP, Reuters, Al Jazeera)