Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized the importance of maintaining a constructive relationship with President-elect Donald Trump, warning that proposed tariffs on Canadian goods would harm both Canadian and American economies. Trudeau highlighted past successes in renegotiating NAFTA to protect jobs and promote growth on both sides of the border. Trump has announced plans to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian products to address issues like drug trafficking and illegal immigration, a move that U.S. President Joe Biden criticized as counterproductive.
Former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, who led the country from 1984 to 1993, has passed away at the age of 84. Known for his leadership during the closing days of the Cold War and for forging the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with the US, Mulroney's legacy includes controversial economic reforms and a vocal stance against apartheid in South Africa. His passing has been mourned by current Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who praised Mulroney's dedication to making Canada a better place.
Brian Mulroney, the former Canadian prime minister known for his close ties with President Ronald Reagan and his economic policies, has died at 84. He was a controversial figure, facing criticism for shifting views and allegations of power abuse. Mulroney's legacy includes signing NAFTA, introducing the Goods and Services Tax, and addressing social issues such as indigenous rights and climate change.
US Senator Katie Britt has condemned Mexico's seizure of a port facility owned by Birmingham-based Vulcan Materials in Quintana Roo, calling it "unlawful and unacceptable." Vulcan has been in NAFTA arbitration with Mexico since 2018 over its investments in the country, including a limestone quarry near Playa del Carmen. The Mexican government is negotiating a settlement of a $1.1 billion lawsuit by Vulcan over an effort to shutter that quarry. Mexico has accused Vulcan of extracting materials without proper permits. Britt has called on President Biden to raise the issue with President López Obrador and assure Americans that such actions will not be tolerated.