In a significant escalation of trade tensions, Mexico and Canada announced on Saturday that they will impose retaliatory tariffs against the United States following President Donald Trump's decision to levy tariffs on imports from the two countries, as well as China.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum declared that Mexico would respond to the U.S. tariffs with its own measures. \"We do not seek confrontation with our northern neighbor, but we cannot remain passive in the face of these actions,\" Sheinbaum stated in a lengthy post on X. \"We aim for collaboration and dialogue.\"
Sheinbaum also fiercely rejected accusations from Washington that her government has alliances with drug trafficking groups, labeling them as \"slander.\" She emphasized her administration's efforts since taking office in October, highlighting the seizure of 20 million doses of the deadly synthetic opioid fentanyl and the detention of over 100,000 individuals linked to drug trafficking.
\"We categorically reject the White House's slander that the Mexican government has alliances with criminal organizations, as well as any intention of meddling in our territory,\" Sheinbaum wrote.
Meanwhile, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada would impose 25 percent tariffs on C$155 billion (US$106.5 billion) worth of U.S. goods in response to the American tariffs. \"C$30 billion worth of goods will take effect on Tuesday, with an additional C$125 billion implemented in 21 days,\" Trudeau stated during a news conference.
The trade dispute marks a significant strain in relations between the North American neighbors. Both Mexico and Canada have expressed a desire to resolve the issues through dialogue but are prepared to take decisive action to protect their economies.
(With input from agencies)
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Mexican president says Mexico will retaliate against U.S. tariffs
cgtn.com
