Trump Calls EU's Associate Partnership Offer to Canada 'Laughable', Threatens Tariffs
US president warns of 'very heavy tariffs' on Europe if bloc's overture to Canada reflects 'bad intentions', as EU and Canadian leaders describe differing visions of closer ties.
US President Donald Trump described as "laughable" the European Union's offer to make Canada its first "associate member," while threatening to impose "very heavy tariffs" on Europe if the proposal was made with "bad intentions," according to a video published by The Guardian.
Trump's remarks came after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she wanted to open the door to Canada becoming the EU's first associate member, according to the report.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, however, characterized Ottawa's goal differently, saying the country was seeking a "unique alliance" with the bloc rather than membership, the report said.
The Guardian noted that the EU's offer to Canada has also prompted discussion over whether the arrangement could serve as a model for Britain's relationship with the bloc, or whether it underscores the UK's separation from EU structures following Brexit.
Details on the specific terms of the proposed associate membership, and on how the tariff threat might be implemented, were not further specified in the available report.
Sources
- Trump calls EU's offer of associate partnership to Canada 'laughable' – video — The Guardian — Business
EGazette summarizes reporting from multiple sources; follow the links for the originals.
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