Ottawa has been preparing for next U.S. president ‘for months,’ foreign affairs minister says
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly has revealed that Canadian officials have been diligently preparing for the upcoming change in U.S. leadership for several months, as American voters decide who will succeed Joe Biden in the White House.
In a press conference in Ottawa on Tuesday, Joly emphasized the extensive groundwork that has been laid out through Canada’s diplomatic channels both within the U.S. and globally. She stated, “This government is committed to addressing key issues that are crucial to Canadians, regardless of the outcome of the U.S. election.”
Today marks the final day for voters to cast their ballots in a closely contested presidential race between Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump. The outcome of this election will undoubtedly have significant implications for Canada-U.S. relations.
Former U.S. ambassador to Canada, Kelly Craft, has warned that Canada should brace itself for a potentially more contentious bilateral relationship if Trump secures another term in office. Craft cautioned that Trump would likely continue his policies from his first term, including demands for increased defense spending from NATO allies.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed Joly’s sentiments, expressing readiness to collaborate with whomever emerges as the victor in the U.S. election. Trudeau has reportedly been briefed by Canadian security officials on the possibility of civil unrest in the U.S. in the event of a delayed election result, mirroring the tumultuous aftermath of the 2020 election.
Trade is expected to be a focal point in Canada-U.S. relations should Trump be re-elected, with the President proposing a minimum 10% tariff on all imports into the U.S. This move could have significant repercussions for Canadian businesses and workers, given the substantial volume of goods that cross the border daily.
Amid concerns of potential violence and foreign interference in the election process, Canadian officials remain vigilant. The FBI has reported receiving bomb threats at polling stations across the U.S., some of which have been linked to Russian sources. Despite these threats, authorities have not deemed them credible.
As the world awaits the outcome of the U.S. election, Canadian leaders are poised to navigate the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the evolving landscape of international relations. Canada’s commitment to upholding its obligations to its allies, promoting open trade, and safeguarding democratic processes remains unwavering.
