‘Easier ways to send messages’ to Trump than bringing in the King: U.S. ambassador
The upcoming visit of King Charles III to Ottawa has sparked speculation about its implications for the ongoing tensions between the United States and Canada. The new U.S. ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra, has made it clear that the annexation saga is over and that it’s time to move forward. In an interview with CBC’s The House, Hoekstra emphasized that there are easier ways to send messages to the American government than through symbolic gestures like the king’s visit.
“We’re thrilled that the king will be here,” said Hoekstra. “If there’s a message in there, there’s easier ways to send messages. Just give me a call. Carney can call the president at any time.” Hoekstra reiterated that the U.S. government is focused on increasing America’s prosperity, safety, and security, and that the 51st state threats are no longer on the table.
King Charles III is set to deliver the speech from the throne in the Senate on Tuesday, marking the third time a British monarch has done so in Canada. The throne speech lays out the government’s goals and plans for the upcoming session of Parliament. Hoekstra stated that the U.S. government will be paying close attention to the content of the speech, as it reflects the ruling party’s platform.
On the topic of trade and tariff negotiations between Canada and the United States, Hoekstra revealed that discussions are underway but the intensity is unclear. Prime Minister Mark Carney recently met with President Trump to discuss economic and security relations, with a focus on lifting U.S. tariffs. Hoekstra mentioned that the ball is in Canada’s court to outline their proposals regarding the tariffs, as other countries have already submitted their ideas to the Trump administration.
In response to Carney’s statement that the U.S. is an economic threat to Canada, Hoekstra disagreed, emphasizing the economic opportunities that the U.S. offers Canada as its second-largest trading partner. He stressed that the U.S. is prioritizing negotiations that benefit the American people and expects other countries to do the same.
Overall, Hoekstra’s message is clear – the U.S. is moving forward with its agenda of prioritizing American interests in trade negotiations. The King’s visit may carry symbolic weight, but Hoekstra believes that direct communication and concrete proposals are the best way to address any outstanding issues between the two countries.
