Sounding like a voice from the President Donald Trump’s administration, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Thursday that he was impressed with Trump during their meeting this week in Washington.
“What I saw from the American president was a focus on getting things done for the people who supported him and who believe in him, while demonstrating that good relations with one’s neighbors is a great way of getting things done,” said Trudeau.
Trudeau was speaking at a news conference in Strasbourg, France along with the president of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani. Tajani echoed Trudeau’s message of reassurance and suggested that Canada can play a special intermediary role between the U.S. and Europe because Monday’s Washington summit had “paved the way for better relations between European Union and the United States of America,” Tajani said.
“We want to work with the Americans. Over the next years, the Canadian work is very good for relations between us and America. It’s easier for the Canadians to speak to the Americans.”
Trudeau spoke at length about the Monday meeting with Trump, claiming the two leaders are seeking many of the same goals and have much in common with their appeal to the middle class, something the PM suggested was “a positive example that everyone is going benefit from around the world.”
In town just a day after the European Parliament had narrowly ratified the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) on Wednesday, Trudeau suggested the agreement could be “one of the last” such trade agreements if it fails to satisfy all parties.
“The European Union is a truly remarkable achievement, and an unprecedented model for peaceful co-operation. Canada knows that an effective European voice on the global stage isn’t just preferable — it’s essential,” Trudeau said. It was the first time a Canadian prime minister had addressed the European Parliament.
“If we are successful, CETA will become the blueprint for all ambitious, future trade deals. If we are not, this could well be one of the last.”
“Now, we live in a time when many people are worried that the current system only benefits society’s luckiest few. And their concern is valid,” Trudeau said.
“The anxiety people have towards the economy and trade — the worry that our kids won’t have access to the same jobs and opportunities that we had — can be addressed only if we ensure that trade is inclusive, so that everyone benefits.”
“Collectively, we believe in democracy, transparency, and the rule of law. We believe in human rights. And we believe in inclusion, and in diversity,” Trudeau said.
“We know that, in these times, we must choose to lead the international economy, not simply be subject to its whims.”
“Populism has taken hold everywhere. Mr. Trump is the biggest example of that and so it’s another vision of our future,” said former Quebec premier Jean Charest, one of CETA’s early proponents who came to Strasbourg for Wednesday’s ratification.
“This vote is very significant for those of us who believe the world is a better place if we actually work together. It sounds simple but you know what, this is what is at stake.”
“We have just collectively demonstrated the value of trade and the propersity for all our citizens that comes with it,” PMJT tells EU.
— Glen McGregor (@glen_mcgregor) February 16, 2017
Better turnout in EU Parliament now as PMJT gives first-ever address by Canadian prime minister. pic.twitter.com/kVvPRsu0Ck
— Glen McGregor (@glen_mcgregor) February 16, 2017
PMJT arrives at European Union Parliament in advance of first-ever address by a Canadian prime minister. pic.twitter.com/kQVwGOekHO
— Glen McGregor (@glen_mcgregor) February 16, 2017
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