Poilievre tells U.S. audience Canadians are feeling ‘wounded’ from U.S. trade actions

OTTAWA — Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre was in New York City on Thursday, urging Americans to return to two-way tariff-free trade between Canada and the U.S.

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“Let’s knock down those tariffs and focus on building a stronger North America for our two separate countries,” said Poilievre, during an interview on CNBC’s Squawk Box.

Poilievre is visiting the U.S. to promote free trade and participate in ceremonies commemorating the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The leader of the opposition was also asked about Canadians’ feelings towards the U.S.

“Look, I think we feel a little bit wounded,” said Poilievre. “We’re kind of confused as to how it is suddenly that Canada ended up in the crosshairs.”

The Conservative leader urged the U.S. administration and Congress to knock down tariffs, adding that the trade war between Canada and the U.S. should have been “over yesterday.”

When asked whether trust can be restored between the two countries, Poilievre said it would start with the removal of tariffs.

“Because as soon as that happens, then I think we can work together,” said Poilievre. “At the same time, Canada is beginning to diversify, further diversify its trade to overseas markets, and that is going to be necessary now, regardless of what the administration does.”

The trade conflict between the U.S. and Canada has intensified in recent weeks, following the collapse in trade negotiations between both sides last month. U.S. President Donald Trump then imposed a 50 per-cent tariff on nearly $28 billion of Canadian goods, with Canada matching those tariffs, imposing levies ranging from 15 to 50 per cent on $27.6 billion worth of U.S. imports this week.

On Tuesday, Trump announced he would impose import bans on some Canadian alcohol products, dairy products and motorcycles.

More to come.

National Post

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