Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau became visibly emotional during a press conference in Ottawa, as he discussed his tenure and the ongoing dispute with President Donald Trump. Reflecting on his time in office, Trudeau said, “On a personal level, I’ve made sure that every single day in this office I put Canadians first, and that I have people’s backs,” as tears welled up in his eyes. The emotional moment came as Trudeau reiterated his commitment to Canadians even in the final days of his government.
Commitment to child care system
Trudeau focused much of his speech on the success of his administration’s child care program, announcing that Canada had reached a deal with 11 of 13 provinces and territories to extend current early learning and childcare agreements until March 2031. “Even in the very last days of this government, we will not let Canadians down today and long into the future,” he vowed. He emphasised that these initiatives were foundational to Canadian society, akin to health care and social programs.
Pressure from Trump on trade tariffs
The emotional speech came amidst escalating tensions between Canada and the US over trade issues, particularly Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canadian imports. Trudeau accused Trump of targeting the Canadian economy in a bid to undermine the country’s sovereignty. “We will never be the 51st state, but he can do damage to the Canadian economy,” Trudeau said, referring to Trump’s earlier comments about potentially making Canada the “51st state.”
The tariffs, which were implemented after Trump accused Canada and Mexico of failing to address the flow of fentanyl and illegal immigration, have further strained the relationship between the two countries.
Trump’s tariff rollback
In response to mounting pressure, Trump signed executive orders to pause the 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, which had been due to take effect on Tuesday. The pause, effective until April 2, is linked to the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).
However, the tariff issue remains unresolved, with Trump threatening further measures unless Canada and Mexico meet specific demands. Trump had previously signed off on the USMCA during his first term in 2018 as a revamp of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).
Trudeau’s future plans
Trudeau’s emotional address also alluded to his upcoming departure from office, as he prepares to step down as leader of the Liberal Party following a leadership election. After his resignation, the next Canadian election is expected to take place no later than October 2025. Trudeau has faced increasing political pressure in recent months, with critics claiming he could not win another term as prime minister.
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