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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney firmly rejected the idea of his country becoming the “51st American state” during his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on May 6.
Answering reporters’ questions, Trump said he still supports bringing Canada into the U.S., claiming it would benefit Canadians.
“I think it has huge advantages for Canadian citizens: much lower taxes, a free military — which, frankly, we already provide since we protect Canada,” the U.S. president said.
In response, Carney remarked that in real estate, “there are places that are never for sale.”
“And after meeting with the owners of Canada over the past few months of the election campaign — this place is not for sale and never will be,” Carney added.
He further emphasized his government’s intention to strengthen Canada’s defense contribution — a move Trump welcomed, though he added: “Never say never.”
Canada and the U.S. have been close partners and allies for decades, but Trump strained relations early in his presidency by undermining Canada’s statehood, calling it the “51st state,” and imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian goods (which are currently paused for some products).
After his Liberal Party’s election victory, Carney pledged a tough stance in future talks with Trump.
Meanwhile, Trump, ahead of the visit, predicted they would have “a great relationship.”
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