As Canada faces a challenging geopolitical landscape, it is essential for the next government in Ottawa, regardless of its composition, to move away from reflexive anti-Americanism. Instead, Canada should pursue a course that prioritizes the interests of the Canadian community while avoiding divisive conflict and unnecessary subservience to foreign powers.
The assumption that Canada can stand on its own is as foolish as thinking the country is only a minor economic appendage of the United States. Both these views have, at times, infected policy in Ottawa.
Canada should avoid futile name-calling and a tariff war. Instead, it needs to take strategic steps to strengthen its autonomy by practicing Realpolitik, recognizing the realities of the world, and acting to mitigate risks and seize opportunities while abandoning failed ideologies.
However, if Washington continues pursuing protectionist measures, Canada must find mature and effective ways to strengthen the diminished position in which Ottawa placed the country this last decade. What can Canada do differently?
