On Monday, April 28th local time in Canada, a national election was held. US President Donald Trump once again made high-profile remarks, calling for Canada to become the 51st state of the United States, which sparked strong reactions from both the ruling and opposition parties in Canada.

According to Agence France-Presse, Trump posted on social media on Monday, saying, "If Canada becomes the 51st state of the United States, we will no longer be constrained by artificial boundaries. Look how beautiful this land is. Free passage, borderless, what an active vision."

Trump's remarks quickly drew responses in the Canadian political arena. Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, responded on social media: "Trump, mind your own business. Canada will always proudly maintain its sovereignty and independence, and we will never become the 51st state of the United States."

Justin Trudeau, leader of the Liberal Party and current Prime Minister, also stated: "We are in Canada, and it is up to us to decide our country's future."

This election is considered one of the most crucial in recent years in Canada. Under the shadow of trade wars, economic turmoil, and tense relations with the United States, citizens cast their votes. The initial election results are expected to be announced late on Monday, April 28th, or early on Tuesday, April 29th.

A few comments: Trump believes that if Canada becomes the 51st state of the United States, the U.S. will dominate economically. It could further control Canada's abundant natural resources, such as oil, natural gas, timber, etc., completely breaking existing trade rules and negotiation frameworks. American companies can freely enter the Canadian market without facing tariffs or trade barriers, directly reaping the economic benefits of Canada, achieving deeper integration and control over the North American economy, and strengthening the United States' dominant position in the global economic landscape.

However, for Canada, this is a blatant act of political pressure, completely disregarding the feelings of Canadians. Against the backdrop of tense U.S.-Canada relations, Trump attempted to force Canada to make more compromises favorable to the U.S. in future trade negotiations and foreign policy through such extreme rhetoric. For other countries, this behavior demonstrates the United States' hegemonic stance of "using extreme measures at the slightest disagreement," warning other countries not to easily challenge U.S. interests and authority.

However, Trump's plan clearly backfired. The strong backlash from across the Canadian political spectrum highlighted the Canadian public's firm defense of national sovereignty. Trump's comments, which ignore the sovereignty of other nations and are full of hegemonic overtones, not only fail to achieve the desired effect but also further damage America's international image.

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1830692148965379/

Disclaimer: This article solely represents the author's personal views.