Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney dismissed as "crazy" a recent remark by a senior U.S. official suggesting Canada should become the 51st state.
Speaking to reporters after his swearing-in ceremony, Carney offered a blunt response to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s statement about Canada’s independence.
"It's crazy," Carney said. "That's it."
Rubio, speaking at the G7 foreign ministers' meeting in La Malbaie, Quebec, defended U.S. President Donald Trump’s repeated comments about Canada joining the United States, claiming it would be beneficial for the country.
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Carney stated that he currently has no immediate plans to visit the U.S. but looks forward to speaking with Trump "at the appropriate moment."
In his first speech as prime minister, Carney outlined his government's priorities: protecting Canadian workers from U.S. tariff threats and strengthening the economy by increasing disposable income for Canadians.
While he did not confirm plans for an early election, he hinted at major upcoming announcements.
"There will be other news in the coming days," he said.
Carney was sworn in as Canada's 24th prime minister on Friday and appointed a new cabinet.