Trump's threat has raised concerns in Canada, as three-quarters of its exports go to the U.S., making tariff-free access essential for its economy.
Donald Trump has warned that Canada could become the 51st state of the United States if it fails to address the issues of illegal immigration and drug trafficking. According to Fox News, Trump made this statement during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. However, it is believed that Trump made the comment in a light-hearted manner during their discussion.
This news was reported by Russian news agency TASS on Tuesday, December 3.
Trump is often known for making exaggerated claims, which can sometimes appear humorous. It is seen as a way for him to emphasize his strict stance on immigration.
According to Fox News, during a discussion last week at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, Trump told Trudeau that if Canada fails to reduce illegal immigration across the Ottawa border and address the trade deficit, he would impose a 25% tariff on all Canadian goods starting on his inauguration day, January 20.
Trudeau responded by saying such measures would devastate Canada’s economy, to which Trump replied that Canada could simply become the 51st state of the United States.
Fox News reported that Trudeau and the Canadian delegation burst into laughter at this comment.
One meeting participant joked that if this were to happen, Canada would become a deep-blue state, likely electing liberal and left-leaning politicians.
In response, Trump suggested splitting Canada into two states—one liberal and the other conservative. He also added that Trudeau could serve as the governor of the 51st state.
Fox News mentioned that the meeting between the Canadian Prime Minister and Trump lasted nearly three hours.
The United States, Mexico, and Canada are bound by a trilateral agreement to maintain a free trade zone among the three countries. However, Trump has already indicated that due to illegal immigration and drug trafficking, he would impose a 25% tariff on all goods from Canada and Mexico.
According to the Wall Street Journal, this threat has shocked Canadian politicians and businesses. As three-quarters of Canada’s total exports go to the U.S., tariff-free access to the American market is essential for Ottawa’s economic growth.
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