By DAYO ADESULU
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s visit to Washington has sparked fresh diplomatic chatter after a tense exchange with former US President Donald Trump.
During a joint appearance, Trump acknowledged that relations between the two countries had been “tested,” an unusual admission that some observers interpreted as a rare moment of self-awareness.
The visit, meant to reinforce economic and trade cooperation, instead drew attention for Trump’s offhand remarks and visibly awkward interactions. Canadian and US media outlets reported that Trump’s tone oscillated between charm and condescension — with one statement suggesting he “didn’t realize how much Canada had stepped back” in recent years.
Analysts say the moment underscored the broader chill that has lingered between Washington and Ottawa since the trade disputes and policy tensions of Trump’s presidency.
Carney, maintaining a calm posture throughout the visit, stressed the need for “mutual respect and forward-looking cooperation” — a subtle but pointed message toward his host.
Observers believe the Canadian leader’s Washington trip was aimed at reopening strategic channels ahead of a new round of trade and climate talks, but Trump’s comments may complicate that effort.
While both sides described the meeting as “productive,” insiders said the optics reflected more friction than friendship.
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