Title: Trump Reaffirms Protectionist Trade Stance in Meeting with Carney

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump reinforced his protectionist trade policies during a meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Oval Office. Trump characterized the trade relationship between the United States and Canada as a "natural business conflict" stemming from their geographical proximity. He expressed that American consumers are not inclined to purchase vehicles manufactured in Canada.

While Carney listened, Trump emphasized the U.S. intention to produce its own steel and reduce reliance on imports from other nations. Carney, who has previously praised Trump as a "transformative" leader, noted the president's impact on the economy and his success in securing increased defense spending commitments from NATO allies.

In a bid to ease tensions in trade relations, Carney has eliminated Canada’s digital services tax and many retaliatory tariffs. These actions are part of an effort to de-escalate the ongoing trade conflict with the U.S.

Prior to the meeting, Ontario Premier Doug Ford stated that if Carney fails to negotiate an end to the U.S. tariffs affecting the steel, aluminum, and automotive industries, Canada should consider implementing its own retaliatory measures against the United States. Ford's comments highlight the ongoing concerns regarding the impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian industries and the potential for escalating trade tensions between the two countries.