US, Canada to strengthen ties following Trudeau’s visit to Washington

WASHINGTON DC, United States (Kurdistan24) – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday visited US President Donald Trump to discuss issues related to immigration, economy, and military.

During a joint press conference after a meeting at the White House, the Canadian PM pointed to the “long history” of Americans and Canadians “working, fighting, and dying together.”

Regarding President Trump’s order banning immigrants from seven Muslim-majority countries, Trudeau told reporters he did not intend to “lecture” the US about their governance.

“The last thing Canadians expect is for me to come down and lecture another country on how they choose to govern themselves,” Trudeau stated.

“My role, our responsibility, is to continue to govern in such a way that reflects Canadians’ approach and be a positive example in the world,” he continued.

Meanwhile, Trump assured reporters his administration was receiving “praise” for their position on immigration.

“It is a stance of common sense [with] a certain toughness,” the US President said.

“We are going to pursue it vigorously, and we don’t want to have our country have the kinds of problems that you’re witnessing taking place…around the world,” Trump added.

Additionally, the Canadian PM pointed to the importance of economic ties and trade between the two countries.

“By ensuring the continued effective integration of our two economies, we are going to be creating greater opportunities for middle-class Canadians and Americans,” he stated.

Following the news conference, a joint statement was issued by both leaders.

In the statement, Trudeau and Trump both recognized “profound shared economic interests and pledged to work to boost growth and generate jobs in both countries.”

The report also acknowledged the US’ appreciation of Canada’s military efforts, especially in the fight against the Islamic State.

Editing by Ava Homa