Calgary 
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says tariffs will be paused for 30 days.
Prime Minister Trudeau meets with President Trump in London. December 3, 2019. London, United Kingdom – December 3, 2019. Photo by Adam Scotti (PMO)
Following a telephone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, Trudeau outlined Canada’s $1.3 billion border plan, including new helicopters, technology, and personnel to combat fentanyl smuggling. Additional measures include appointing a Fentanyl Czar, designating cartels as terrorists, a Canada-U.S. Joint Strike Force, and a new $200 million intelligence initiative against organized crime and fentanyl trafficking.
“I just had a good call with President Trump. Canada is implementing our $1.3 billion border plan — reinforcing the border with new choppers, technology and personnel, enhanced coordination with our American partners, and increased resources to stop the flow of fentanyl,” stated Trudeau on X.
“Nearly 10,000 frontline personnel are and will be working on protecting the border. In addition, Canada is making new commitments to appoint a Fentanyl Czar, we will list cartels as terrorists, ensure 24/7 eyes on the border, launch a Canada- U.S. Joint Strike Force to combat organized crime, fentanyl and money laundering. I have also signed a new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl and we will be backing it with $200 million.”
” Proposed tariffs will be paused for at least 30 days while we work together.”
While the $1.3 billion border plan was outlined last December after Trump threatened tariffs, the new measures announced today include Canada appointing a Fentanyl Czar, listing cartels as terrorists, and launching a joint strike force with the U.S., backed by $200 million. A new intelligence directive on organized crime and fentanyl has also been signed.
“Canada has agreed to ensure we have a secure Northern Border, and to finally end the deadly scourge of drugs like Fentanyl that have been pouring into our Country, killing hundreds of thousands of Americans, while destroying their families and communities all across our Country,” posted Donald Trump on Truth Social acknowledging the deal.
“As President, it is my responsibility to ensure the safety of ALL Americans, and I am doing just that. I am very pleased with this initial outcome, and the Tariffs announced on Saturday will be paused for a 30 day period to see whether or not a final Economic deal with Canada can be structured. FAIRNESS FOR ALL!”
Canada and the US were on the brink of a trade war with tit-for-tat tariffs in response to 25% tariffs on all Canadian goods except 10% on oil which were set to begin at midnight.
Further details are forthcoming.
