In a significant response to ongoing remarks from US President-elect Donald Trump, Canadian leaders have expressed their concerns regarding his suggestion that Canada could become the 51st state. This assertion is no longer viewed as a mere joke, according to Canada’s finance minister, Dominic LeBlanc, who criticized the comments as a ploy to disrupt the longstanding friendly relations between the two nations. “The joke is over,” LeBlanc remarked, emphasizing that such remarks are aimed at sowing confusion and creating chaos, and that they are counterproductive to US-Canada relations (South China Morning Post).

Initially, Trump made these comments during a dinner with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at Mar-a-Lago in late November, suggesting that the economic relationship could be used to exert pressure on Canada. Referring to a purported US trade deficit with Canada, he implied that “economic force” could compel Canada to comply with US interests. LeBlanc criticized this idea, stating it reflects a misunderstanding of the crucial ties that bind the two countries, especially considering that Canada provides a significant portion of US energy needs (India Times).

With Prime Minister Trudeau announcing his resignation, the backdrop of leadership change adds urgency to the discussions about Canada’s economic strategies and its future with the US. “The timing is awful for sure,” admitted Canadian Liberal lawmaker Judy Sgro, who underscored that Canada must remain united and resilient in the face of external challenges. In her remarks, she advised Trump to concentrate on the issues within his own country, stating, “He’s got lots of them” (HuffPost).

Echoing these sentiments, Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller denounced Trump’s comments as “ridiculous,” asserting that the idea of Canada becoming part of the US is far-fetched and beneath the dignity of a US president. “This whole thing was like a South Park episode,” he remarked, illustrating the absurdity perceived by many Canadian officials.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford strongly countered Trump’s claims regarding Canadian exports, highlighting that Canada is a major supplier of crude oil to the US, contributing roughly 60% of its energy imports. He asserted, “Right now we ship 4.3 million barrels of crude oil into the US,” and warned that any proposed tariffs from Trump would provoke retaliatory measures from Canada.

In reflecting on these controversies, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly reiterated the importance of remaining firm amidst Trump’s threats. “At the same time we can’t take the bait,” she stated, indicating the necessity of demonstrating Canada’s robust economy and independence from US influence. Canada remains a vital partner, supplying steel, aluminum, and critical minerals essential to US national security interests.

The leaders' unified response underlines a commitment to maintaining strong and pragmatic relations despite the provocative statements from the US administration.

For more details, refer to the original reports from South China Morning Post, India Times, and HuffPost.