In a striking display of geopolitical chess, US President Donald Trump has ramped up pressure on Canada, warning of severe trade repercussions if Ottawa dares to ink any deals with China.
Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Britain has boldly sealed a landmark agreement with Beijing, easing travel restrictions for its citizens.
Trump, known for his hardline stance on trade, directly threatened Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, stating that any pact with China would trigger a whopping 100 per cent tariff on Canadian goods entering the US. “If they make any kind of deal with China, the US will impose 100 per cent tariffs on Canadian products,” Trump declared, according to reports.
This comes amid escalating tensions in global trade dynamics, placing Carney’s administration in a precarious position — no such deal has been announced yet, suggesting the warning has resonated effectively.
In contrast, the government of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a game-changing deal on Thursday, declaring that UK nationals no longer require visas for trips to Beijing. “British citizens can now travel to China without any visa hurdles,” the announcement read, indicating a major improvement in UK-China relations.
This move is poised to boost tourism and business ties, even as other Western nations tread cautiously.
The developments underscore shifting alliances in a multipolar world, where threats and deals reshape international bonds. Analysts suggest Trump’s tactics could strain North American unity, while Britain’s initiative might inspire similar pacts elsewhere.