'It's not realistic': Former PM Chretien thinks Trump will back off trade war
CTV
Former prime minister Jean Chretien says U.S. president-elect Donald Trump is likely to walk back his threat of punishing tariffs and the resulting trade war with Canada, because the Americans are too reliant on a number of Canadian exports, namely in the energy sector.
Former prime minister Jean Chrétien says U.S. president-elect Donald Trump is likely to walk back his threat of punishing tariffs and the resulting trade war with Canada, because the Americans are too reliant on a number of Canadian exports, namely in the energy sector.
"He's apparently said this morning that he does not need our electricity. Fine," Chrétien said in an exclusive broadcast interview with CTV Question Period, airing Sunday. "If he wants us to cut off electricity, he would have to walk up the Trump Tower with candles to go to his office, because the state of New York relies a lot on electricity coming from Canada."
"So it's not realistic," Chrétien also said to host Vassy Kapelos.
Trump has threatened to impose blanket 25 per cent tariffs on all imports from Canada and Mexico. While Trump initially signalled the issue at hand was the flow of illegal drugs and migrants over the border, lately the incoming president has defended the tariffs on their own merit, despite the impact they would have on the American economy.
In response, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has previously threatened to cut off electricity from his province to 1.5 million homes in New York, Michigan and Minnesota as a "last resort" if Trump follows through on this threat. But this past week, Ford struck a more collaborative tone, pitching an energy plan dubbed "Fortress Am-Can" that would rely and build upon Ontario's existing nuclear infrastructure to deliver more power south of the border.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Quebec Premier Francois Legault and Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey have said they are opposed to cutting off energy exports to retaliate.
Chrétien — who served as Canada's 20th prime minister from 1993 to 2003 — said trade negotiations and other bilateral issues have, and always will, occur with the country's closest neighbour and ally.
Three byelections are being held on April 13 and the results could have an impact on both the makeup of Parliament and how long it lasts. Here’s a primer on how things could change.
One of the six co-working spaces for federal public servants in the national capital region is set to close this spring, just weeks before federal employees will be required to spend more time in the office.
More than 40 high school girls gave up part of their weekend in exchange for circuit boards and problem-solving challenges at Concordia University.
A curious and daring orange cat that found itself stuck far up a backyard tree in Orléans was able to be rescued with help from local residents and an arborist who took to social media to call for help.
Mechanical issues prompted the cancellation of several sailings between Greater Victoria and Metro Vancouver Sunday, according to BC Ferries.
Dancers are showing their solidarity for those affected by the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine at the annual Tavria Ukrainian Dance Festival in Regina.
Traffic restrictions are in place on Circle Drive after a large vehicle hit a train bridge overpass in Saskatoon.
A Manitoba homeowner is taking her real estate agent and brokerage to court, alleging the size of her home was substantially overstated—including a living area advertised as nearly three times larger than its actual size.
Avalanche control efforts by Parks Canada Saturday triggered several avalanches along Highway 93 North.
The community of Tumbler Ridge, B.C., has been named as one of two finalists for the title of Kraft Hockeyville.
Parts of the province are expecting significant amounts of spring snow over a 24-to-36-hour period.
Steve’s Music Store in Toronto was more than just a place to buy a new guitar or grab a fresh set of picks and strings.