Colin Robertson’s Post

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Senior Advisor and Fellow, Canadian Global Affairs Institute

Dealing with Trump...again: Managing the relationship with Uncle Sam has been the constant in Canadian foreign policy since before Confederation. With a second Trump presidency, we face the threat of an across-the board 10-per-cent-or-more tariff and a withdrawal of the American defence umbrella. Canada must use the time between now and the inauguration to both clear up unfinished business with the Biden administration and be ready for the Trump administration. Working with the Trump transition team, we need to take the initiative and come up with a new ‘roadmap’, setting out management of the relationship around four baskets: defence and security; trade and investment; energy, environment, and climate; and the border. Dealing with the US requires patience and perseverance. We must resist the temptation to pontificate and preach,We need to keep a vigilant eye on the administration’s agenda, identifying when we can be helpful and when we need to stand up for Canada. It means taking the initiative and coming up with imaginative solutions.

Joe Ingram

Chairman Of The Board at Greentech Labs

3w

Love your comment Colin, though given the accelerating impact of global warming, we need to stress that it is in Canada’s best interest to become a de facto leader on quickly and decisively addressing global warming through both strengthened multilateralism, consolidating partnerships with like-minded states in Europe and the global south and quickly shifting fossil fuel subsidies to R&D spending on green technologies. Warming constitutes the real existential threat to life on our planet.

Shawn Cruise

Chief Revenue Officer

3w

A well prepared Canada is the best response. Patience and preparation will ensure we achieve strategic results everytime.

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Val Samonis

The Web Professor of Global Management(SM)

3w

The important thing is to align our China trade policy with that of the USA. Other than that, this government is experienced in negotiating with Mr Lighthizer who is a top professional.

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