Dhaka: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed concern on Thursday over the deteriorating trade negotiations with the United States, following President Donald Trump’s critical remarks about Canada and its leadership. Carney emphasized that despite the heated rhetoric, Canada remains committed to protecting its workers and businesses in the ongoing discussions.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Carney characterized the talks as challenging, acknowledging the aggressive tone from the U.S. side. Trump, during a speech in Las Vegas, labeled Canada as “nasty,” while simultaneously expressing affection for its people. Carney, speaking in French, described the negotiations as crucial for Canadian jobs and the future of its enterprises.

The tensions have escalated amid a backdrop of existing U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel, aluminum, and automobiles. Trump has further threatened to impose 50% tariffs on additional Canadian goods by August 19. These tariffs, essentially taxes on imports, are expected to increase consumer prices, although Trump’s rationale is that they would drive manufacturing back to the U.S., a claim not strongly supported by economic data.

Trump’s escalating threats, coupled with his suggestion that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state, have stirred significant resentment among Canadians, leading many to rethink their travel plans to the U.S. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer pointed out that Canada and China are the only nations to have retaliated against the tariffs, with Canada imposing restrictions on U.S. alcohol sales in certain provinces. Canadian officials argue these measures are in direct response to U.S. tariffs.

This exchange is part of a broader pattern of rising tensions between the two countries. Earlier this year, at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Carney criticized powerful countries for using economic pressure on smaller nations, prompting a sharp retort from Trump, asserting Canada’s economic reliance on the U.S.

The ongoing trade dispute is significant given Canada’s status as a major trading partner of the U.S. The higher tariffs could exacerbate inflationary pressures in the U.S. as the midterm elections approach. Carney also noted that the existing aluminum tariffs have already driven up U.S. aluminum prices by 58%, negatively impacting American companies.