Synopsis
Washington, Feb 4 (NationPress) Canada has successfully delayed tariff hikes by a month, promising $1.3 billion to combat drug and migrant issues at the northern border, reminiscent of Mexico's recent commitment of military support.Key Takeaways
- Canada delays tariff hikes for one month.
- Canada commits $1.3 billion to border security.
- Trump emphasizes the need for border safety.
- Mexico also secured a similar reprieve.
- Joint efforts against fentanyl and organized crime are underway.
Washington, Feb 4 (NationPress) A month-long delay on tariff increases concerning Canada has been secured, thanks to a commitment of $1.3 billion aimed at curbing the influx of drugs and unauthorized migrants into the US via the northern border.
Previously, Mexico had also achieved a similar delay by promising 10,000 troops at its border with the US.
An additional 25 percent tariff on imports from both Canada and Mexico was set to take effect on Tuesday due to the ongoing issues related to undocumented migrants and drugs. A 10 percent tariff hike is also anticipated for China, though discussions are yet to occur.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Donald Trump announced the postponement through social media after their second conversation on Monday afternoon. Trump stated, “Canada has agreed to ensure we have a secure Northern Border, and to finally end the deadly scourge of drugs like Fentanyl that have been pouring into our Country, killing hundreds of thousands of Americans, while destroying their families and communities all across our Country,” in a post on Truth Social, the platform he owns.
“Canada will implement their $1.3 Billion Border plan, and as per Prime Minister Trudeau, will be, ‘reinforcing the Border with new choppers, technology and personnel, enhanced coordination with our American partners, and increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl’.”
Trump further elaborated: “Nearly 10,000 frontline personnel are, and will be, working on protecting the Border. Moreover, Canada is making new commitments to appoint a Fentanyl Czar, we will designate cartels as terrorists, ensure 24/7 surveillance on the Border, and launch a Canada-US Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl, and money laundering. I have also signed a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl, supported by $200 million.”
In conclusion, he said, “As President, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of ALL Americans, and I am doing just that. I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the Tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30-day period to see whether or not a final Economic deal with Canada can be structured. FAIRNESS FOR ALL!”
Earlier that day, Trump also announced a 30-day reprieve for the tariff hike on Mexico, hinting that a “deal” could be on the horizon.
“I just spoke with President Claudia Sheinbaum of Mexico,” Trump posted on Truth Social, shortly after the Mexican leader made the delay announcement on X.
Trump added: “It was a very friendly conversation wherein she agreed to immediately supply 10,000 Mexican Soldiers on the Border separating Mexico and the United States. These soldiers will be specifically designated to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal migrants into our Country. We further agreed to immediately pause the anticipated tariffs for a one-month period.”
During this month, negotiations will take place with Mexico, which will be led on the American side by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Treasury Scott Bessent, and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick.
“I look forward to participating in those negotiations, with President Sheinbaum, as we attempt to achieve a ‘deal’ between our two Countries,” Trump concluded.
