LONDON (Reuters) – The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, conveyed that his paramount focus during the forthcoming discussions with King Charles is the protection of his nation’s sovereignty, particularly in light of recent comments made by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting the inclusion of Canada as the 51st state of the United States. Trudeau emphasized that there is nothing more critical to the citizens of Canada than asserting their sovereignty and independence. This sentiment was shared ahead of the scheduled meeting with King Charles, who holds the role of Canada’s head of state.
In the previous week, King Charles extended an invitation to President Trump for what would mark a momentous second state visit to Britain. The invitation was formally presented by Prime Minister Keir Starmer during a publicized meeting at the Oval Office. Trudeau expressed his anticipation for the upcoming discussions with King Charles, reaffirming the agenda to address matters crucial to Canada and its people. The Prime Minister underscored the unwavering commitment of Canadians to defend their sovereignty and uphold their status as an independent nation.
Trudeau, who is currently serving as the outgoing Prime Minister, drew attention last month to Trump’s remarks regarding the potential absorption of Canada, emphasizing the country’s abundant natural resources as a contributing factor to such discussions. Trump has persistently floated the idea that Canada would benefit from becoming the 51st state of the U.S., a notion that Trudeau acknowledged as a genuine consideration.
During a press briefing, Trudeau was questioned about Trump’s recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, to which he promptly expressed his solidarity with Zelenskiy. The remarks by Trudeau underscore the importance of supporting fellow leaders and defending the principles of national sovereignty.
(Reporting by Kate Holton and Andrew MacAskill; Editing by David Holmes)
