The visit of the new Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, to the Oval Office on Tuesday, May 6, was a test passed with distinction. Alongside the unpredictable Donald Trump, the visit was a test of credibility and character for the leader, whose electoral success was built on asserting Canadian pride and independence in the face of the White House's aggressive methods.
An "excellent" debater and a "very talented person": Trump had kind words for his guest, who reciprocated by calling him a "transformational president." A reporter asked Trump if he expected a concession from Ottawa, to which the American president responded: "A concession? Friendship." Courtesy was the order of the day. It persisted throughout this public exercise, despite unavoidable questions about the annexation of Canada by the United States, suggested in recent months by the Republican president. He again mentioned an "artificially drawn" border and the tax benefits Canadians would reap if their country became the 51st American state.
Carney, prepared, had a custom-tailored response. "As you know from real estate [Trump's main business sector], there are some places that are never for sale," said the prime minister, while Trump nodded. "We are sitting in one right now. You know Buckingham Palace − you visited, as well. And having met, over the course of the campaign the last several months, the owners of Canada, it's not for sale. It won't be for sale − ever. But the opportunity is in the partnership and what we can build together." It was not in the American president's nature to let him have the last word. "Never say never," he retorted.
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