Trump jokes about ‘51st State’ as he meets Canada’s PM Carney

During a bilateral meeting at the White House on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump lightheartedly teased Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney with a ‘51st State’ remark before their talks turned to trade and international security.

The exchange occurred as PM Carney spoke about the ongoing instability in the Middle East on the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel. While outlining Canada’s priorities including countering Iran’s influence, PM Carney paused briefly, prompting Trump to say with a grin, ‘Merger of Canada and the United States.’

The comment drew laughter in the Oval Office, with Trump quickly clarifying, “I’m only joking.” Carney responded with a smile, saying, “That wasn’t where I was going.”

The meeting focused largely on economic cooperation, defence, and Trump’s proposed Gaza ceasefire initiative. “We’re engaged in serious discussions to end a conflict that’s been going on for millennia,” Trump said. “There’s a real chance for peace in the Middle East and that includes freeing the hostages.”

Trump also claimed broad global support for his peace proposal, saying nearly every nation had endorsed it. He added that Washington and Ottawa were exploring new agreements that would benefit both countries.