- After trade negotiations collapsed late Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump approved 50-per-cent tariffs on about $28-billion worth of Canadian goods.
- Ottawa responded with what it called dollar-for-dollar tariffs targeting nearly 900 items, later adjusting to remove seafood and fish products.
- Greer stated there was 'no way' his side would have allowed the deal to fall apart over the French language issue, calling it 'the farthest thing from a red line.'
- LeBlanc expressed hope for further U.S. clarifications that could lead to a mutually beneficial trade agreement respecting Canadian sovereignty.
- Greer indicated there are no 'open channels' of communication and warned that the U.S. will not passively accept further Canadian retaliation.
- Greer advised against retaliation, acknowledging Canadian sentiment but expressing regret over the situation.
- Greer rejected Canada’s claims that the U.S. brought new last-minute demands, saying Canada pushed for changes related to the auto sector and large trucks.
Canadian Minister LeBlanc expressed optimism regarding U.S. comments on French language promotion, suggesting a potential mutually beneficial trade agreement. He noted, “We look forward to further constructive U.S. clarifications on their other positions, which would create the possibility of a mutually beneficial trade agreement that respects Canadian sovereignty.”5
Despite this, U.S. officials indicated that there are currently no “open channels” of communication, with Mr. Greer stating, “If there’s further retaliation from the Canadian side, we of course, we’re not going to just sit down and take that.”347
The backdrop of these discussions includes ongoing tensions over tariffs, with the U.S. imposing a 50-per-cent tariff on approximately $28-billion worth of Canadian goods after negotiations fell apart. In response, Canada announced dollar-for-dollar tariffs targeting nearly 900 items.12
Mr. Greer emphasized that the U.S. did not insist on changes regarding Canadian policies on French programming, stating, “It’s like the farthest thing from a red line.” He also rejected claims that the U.S. introduced last-minute demands, asserting that Canada sought additional changes related to the auto sector.89
As both sides navigate these complex trade dynamics, the potential for a resolution remains uncertain, with LeBlanc advocating for a collaborative approach to address mutual concerns.
“Greer called the French language issue 'the farthest thing from a red line,' but noted there are no 'open channels' of communication. He warned the U.S. will not passively accept further Canadian retaliation, while Ottawa adjusted its counter-tariff list to remove seafood and fish products.”
The Globe and Mail
