U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday a 30-day pause on new tariffs against Canada, signaling a potential shift toward a negotiated economic agreement. The decision follows discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who has committed to enhancing border security measures.
\"Canada has agreed to ensure we have a secure Northern Border and to finally end the deadly scourge of drugs like fentanyl,\" Trump stated on the social media platform Truth Social. The focus on combating fentanyl trafficking marks a significant point of collaboration between the two nations.
Prime Minister Trudeau echoed this sentiment in a post on X, mentioning a productive conversation with President Trump. \"Proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days while we work together,\" Trudeau wrote. He outlined Canada's $1.3 billion border plan, which includes deploying new helicopters, advanced technology, and increased personnel to strengthen border security.
\"Nearly 10,000 frontline personnel are and will be working on protecting the border,\" Trudeau emphasized. Additionally, Canada plans to appoint a fentanyl czar, designate cartels as terrorist organizations, ensure round-the-clock surveillance at the border, and launch a Canada-U.S. Joint Strike Force targeting organized crime, fentanyl trafficking, and money laundering.
\"I have also signed a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl, and we will be backing it with $200 million,\" Trudeau announced, highlighting the financial commitment to these initiatives.
President Trump expressed satisfaction with these developments, noting, \"I am very pleased with this initial outcome.\" The 30-day pause on tariffs aims to provide both countries with an opportunity to reach a comprehensive agreement.
On Saturday, Trump had signed executive orders imposing additional tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China, triggering widespread opposition and immediate retaliatory measures. Canada's response included imposing 25 percent tariffs on 155 billion Canadian dollars' worth of American goods.
In related developments, Trump mentioned a \"very friendly conversation\" with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum earlier on Monday. The United States and Mexico have agreed to \"immediately pause\" anticipated tariffs for one month to continue negotiations.
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Trump pauses Canada tariffs as Trudeau pledges border crackdown
cgtn.com
