Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed that any decision by Canada to reduce its economic ties with the United States would be catastrophic. He characterized Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent remarks as unrealistic and historically off-base.
Bessent pointed out, “Canada is dependent on the United States. There’s significantly more trade between the north and south than east and west.” Speaking on “Hannity,” he reflected on past attempts by countries to act independently, recalling when French President François Mitterrand tried a similar approach in the 1980s, which ultimately failed.
Bessent suggested that Carney should reconsider focusing on “globalist policies” and instead prioritize what is truly beneficial for Canadians.
In response to President Trump’s threats of 100% tariffs, Secretary Carney stated on Sunday that Canada does not intend to negotiate a free trade agreement with China. He clarified that a recent agreement with China merely removes tariffs in sectors that have struggled recently, and does not represent a free trade agreement.
During a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Carney emphasized that “middle countries” like Canada should have a larger voice in shaping the global economic landscape, implying that major powers should no longer dictate the terms.
While Carney didn’t specifically address Trump, many interpreted his comments as a critique of the U.S. trade policies. Bessent mentioned that Carney seemed to retract some statements during a conversation with Trump in the Oval Office, though an official clarification from Carney has not yet surfaced.
