U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Monday a temporary pause on tariffs imposed on Canada and Mexico, citing the need to evaluate potential economic agreements. The tariffs, initially set on Saturday, will be suspended for a 30-day period to facilitate further negotiations.
Trump stated that the pause aims to determine if a final economic deal with Canada can be structured, emphasizing the importance of securing the northern border and addressing the fentanyl crisis. \"Canada has agreed to ensure we have a secure Northern Border and to finally end the deadly scourge of drugs like fentanyl,\" Trump wrote on Truth Social.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau echoed the sentiment, confirming the tariff suspension and outlining Canada's commitment to border security and drug control. \"Proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days while we work together,\" Trudeau said in a post on X. He detailed Canada’s $1.3 billion border plan, which includes new helicopters, advanced technology, additional personnel, enhanced coordination with American partners, and increased resources to halt the flow of fentanyl. Nearly 10,000 frontline personnel are actively involved in protecting the border.
Trudeau also announced several new measures, including the appointment of a fentanyl czar, the designation of cartels as terrorist organizations, 24/7 border surveillance, and the establishment of a Canada-U.S. Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl distribution, and money laundering. Additionally, a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl has been signed, backed by $200 million in funding.
Trump expressed satisfaction with the initial outcome, stating that the tariff pause allows for continued negotiations. Earlier, on Saturday, Trump had imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports and a 10% increase on imports from China, actions that were met with widespread opposition and immediate retaliatory tariffs from Canada, targeting $107 billion worth of American goods.
In related developments, Trump mentioned a constructive conversation with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, leading to an agreement to pause the anticipated tariffs on Mexican imports for one month while negotiations continue.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
