After over nine years in office, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gave a farewell speech ahead of the selection of a new Liberal Party leader, emphasizing the need to unite against upcoming threats such as a trade war with the United States. Speaking in Ottawa on the 9th local time at the Liberal Party’s leadership election event, Trudeau delivered what was effectively his last farewell address as Prime Minister.
Introduced by his daughter, Trudeau reflected on his term with the party members, stating, “I am very proud of what we have accomplished over the past decade.” He continued by saying, “Tonight is about our future as a party and as a nation,” asserting that the ruling Liberal Party carries the responsibility to make Canada the greatest nation on earth.
Facing tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump towards the end of his term, Trudeau mentioned that Canada is approaching “defining moments for the nation’s identity,” emphasizing the need for a unified response from Canadians.
Trudeau, alluding to the trade war with the Trump administration, remarked that Canada is a nation that “fights with its ‘elbows up’ when needed.” This expression, originating from Canada’s national sport, hockey, symbolizes the growing resentment among Canadians towards the Trump administration.
He urged, “The world is watching what Canadians will do,” and encouraged maintaining a resilient and united stance, proving their love for the nation beyond just party allegiance.
Having been in office since 2015, Trudeau faced declining approval ratings in the past two years due to rising inflation, housing prices, and immigration issues. Politically pressured, especially after Trump took office, Trudeau announced last January that he would resign once a successor was determined.
The Liberal Party elected Mark Carney, former Governor of the Bank of Canada, as the new party leader to succeed Trudeau. Carney is expected to be inaugurated as Canada’s 24th Prime Minister later this week.