'If unjustified tariffs are imposed on Canada...': Trudeau warns Trump
What's the story
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has warned of a swift and robust response if the United States imposes unjustified tariffs on his country.
The warning comes amid escalating trade tensions between the two nations, with US President Donald Trump planning to implement tariffs on Canada and Mexico from March 4.
These proposed tariffs are primarily due to concerns over drug trafficking, specifically fentanyl, into the US.
Tariff prevention
Canada's efforts to prevent US tariffs
Trudeau has emphasized his government's determination to avoid these tariffs.
He said, "Our government, and indeed all of Team Canada, premiers, business leaders, community leaders are focused on one thing: making sure that come Tuesday and for the weeks that follow there are no tariffs imposed on Canada."
He also emphasized that less than 1% of fentanyl entering the US comes from Canada.
Border security
Canada's investment in border security
To tackle the drug trafficking problem, Canada has invested $1.3 billion in bolstering border security.
This includes the use of Blackhawk helicopters, drones, and a 10,000-strong force patrolling its borders.
Trudeau also stated that Canadian officials, including ministers, the commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the head of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and Kevin Brosseau, Canada's fentanyl czar, are in Washington to demonstrate that both countries should work together on the issue.
Drug concerns
Trump's firm stance on drug smuggling
Trump has voiced his concerns over the constant flow of drugs into the US at "very high and unacceptable levels."
He highlighted the effect of fentanyl and other drugs provided by China on American lives, saying these drugs have led to millions of deaths in the last two decades.
He assured proposed tariffs would come into effect on March 4, unless something drastic changes.
Trump has also announced China will face an extra 10% tariff starting March 4.