PM Carney urges unity as Trump targets Canada in trade dispute

Today was the day for Canadians to celebrate their country’s 158th birthday. But Canada and its leaders were also focused on the newest threat to its economy and independence.

Prime Minister Mark Carney told the crowd in Ottawa that Canada won’t let anyone else dictate its future in the face of attacks from the United States.

The events in Ottawa were meant to be a joyful celebration of Canada’s birthday, but there was a very serious side to them considering the threat from U.S. President Donald Trump.

With people jammed into the area near the Parliament buildings for the celebrations, the prime minister delivered a serious message about Canada’s future.

“Once again we find ourselves in a situation where the world is being convulsed. We find ourselves in a situation where our economy is being attacked by a trade war that we didn’t start,” Carney said.

He stressed the need for Canadian unity in the face of U.S. threats.

“Together we’re writing our own story, not having it dictated to us by others,” Carney said.

WATCH MORE: Provinces make progress on trade, but patchwork remains

“Canada has been a very difficult country to deal with over the years … economically we have such power over Canada, I’d rather not use it,” Trump said.

With President Trump attacking Canada’s economy over trade, and his 51st state idea, the White House claims Carney caved in this week by removing a digital tax Trump didn’t like.

“It’s very simple. Prime Minister Carney and Canada caved to President Trump,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Carney suggested today he didn’t cave, rather that he was probably going to remove the tax anyway to get a broader trade agreement with the U.S.

But in his speech, and his Canada Day message, he said Canada has to unite against threats like Trump.

“The world is changing. Old friendships are fraying, our economy is being buffered by a trade war we didn’t start, our values are being tested by attacks on democracy and freedoms that we must resist,” Carney said.

At the Ottawa celebrations, Prince Edward, the brother of King Charles, praised Canada and suggested the country can rely on royal support.

“We take immense pride in Canada and Canadians for all that you do … I want you to know that we always stand ready to support you when you need it,” said Edward.

In the face of Trump’s threats, a poll shows Canadian pride is growing.

Eighty-two-per cent said they are proud, somewhat proud or very proud to be Canadian.

Pollster Angus Reid says pride is back up around pre-Covid levels.

WATCH MORE: U.S. restarts trade talks after Canada rescinds digital services tax