President Donald Trump’s explanation for failing to secure a trade agreement with Canada left numerous journalists in the Oval Office erupting with laughter.
The US and Canada have attempted for months to finalise a trade agreement without success.
During a Tuesday afternoon gathering in the Oval Office, President Trump praised Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as a “great man” who “knows what he wants.”
The praise prompted one journalist to question Trump about why the two countries cannot reach an accord, and his response appeared to amuse everyone present.
“What’s holding things up? If he’s a great man and you want to deal with Canada, why aren’t you?” the journalist enquired.
“Because I want to be a great man too,” the president replied.
Another correspondent asked Trump whether the Canadian prime minister had done anything this week to hinder negotiations.
Trump said Carney “is a nice man but he can be very nasty”.
“He is a world class leader,” Trump adds. “He’s a good man, he does a great job and he’s a tough negotiator.”
Concerning the USMCA (North American Free Trade Agreement), Trump indicated that separate agreements might be renegotiated with each country or that the deal might be reviewed.
When questioned about his preference, Trump said, “I don’t care.
“I want to get the best possible deal for this nation while keeping Canada in mind as well.”
As has been the case with several Oval Office visits this year, the Canadian delegation will likely view the lack of public discord as a victory. Both leaders were brimming with mutual respect.
However, despite the optimism from both sides about reaching an agreement, it’s clear that there are still hurdles to cross.