Former Canadian Prime Minister's speech to the U.S.: "We will bow to no one"
On September 11 local time, former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien delivered a passionate and patriotic speech at a commemoration event in Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador, marking the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, earning thunderous applause from the audience.
Jean Chrétien was the final speaker at this nationally televised event. At the beginning of his speech, he described September 11, 2001, as "a nightmare... something that can never be erased." He then recounted how Canadians stepped forward to stand shoulder to shoulder with U.S. forces, prompting enthusiastic applause.
However, Chrétien quickly shifted focus to the increasingly strained political relationship between Canada and the United States.
Addressing the audience, including U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra, he declared: "We will not bow to anyone. The more we are insulted, threatened, and abused, the more resolute we become in defending ourselves and standing united."
At 92 years old, Chrétien referred to the United States as "our neighbor and closest friend," noting that after the 9/11 attacks, the Canadian government activated what is known as Article Five of NATO—a clause stipulating that an attack on one member is considered an attack on all members.
Chrétien also sent Canadian troops to fight alongside U.S. forces in Afghanistan, where 158 Canadian soldiers lost their lives. He said: "Our friends were wounded, and we were wounded alongside them. I am proud that we stood up for them."
Subsequently, Chrétien observed that after 25 years, the world has changed, and Canada’s relationship with its powerful southern neighbor has grown increasingly distant. He concluded his speech with a message "to our American friends," earning at least three rounds of standing ovations.
Chrétien emphasized that Canada is an open and generous nation, but stressed that such generosity should not be mistaken for weakness. He stated: "Do not mistake our tolerance for a lack of resolve, nor our kindness for weakness. We know who we are, and we are proud of it."
He added that building a nation like Canada—welcoming people from around the world and caring for the most vulnerable—is a demonstration of strength. His core message was one of "sincerity between friends," urging the United States to "respect friendship" and "be good neighbors."
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1876076455021580/
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