US President-elect Donald Trump has revived his controversial idea for a United States-Canada merger following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s announcement of his resignation.
Trump made his remarks via social media on Monday, suggesting that merging the two nations would result in economic benefits and enhanced security.
“If Canada merged with the US, there would be no tariffs, taxes would go way down, and they would be totally secure from the threat of Russian and Chinese ships that are constantly surrounding them,” Trump posted.
“Together, what a great nation it would be!!!” he added.
Trudeau, who has served as Canada’s Prime Minister since 2015, announced that he would step down as Liberal Party leader and prime minister after the party selects a new leader. The announcement follows months of political challenges, including declining polls and internal divisions.
“I intend to resign as party leader, as prime minister, after the party selects its next leader,” Trudeau stated during a press conference in Ottawa.
The timeline for Trudeau’s departure remains unclear, as he will stay on as a caretaker leader until a new party head is chosen through what he described as a “robust, nationwide competitive process.”
Trump’s suggestion comes amid tense US-Canada trade relations. He has pledged to impose a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports, a move that could significantly impact Canada’s economy. Trudeau, in turn, has promised retaliatory measures if such tariffs are introduced.
The potential for a trade war between the neighboring countries poses significant economic and political challenges as Trudeau manages Canada’s transition of leadership while navigating Trump’s new administration.
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
and then