Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has firmly told U.S. President Donald Trump that Canada is not up for sale.
The remark came during a tense yet cordial meeting between both leaders at the White House on Tuesday.
Despite clear disagreements, the tone remained respectful as Trump once again floated the controversial idea of making Canada the 51st state of the United States.
Trump said, “But it takes two to tango, right? We’re not going to be discussing that unless somebody wants to discuss it.”
He added that the union would be a “wonderful marriage,” prompting a swift response from Carney, “There are some places that are never for sale,” pointing to the White House and Buckingham Palace as examples.
In a slight concession, Trump acknowledged Canada’s increased military role, saying, “Canada is stepping up the military participation.”
However, he refused to fully let go of the idea, concluding with, “I say ‘never say never.’”