Carney rejects Trump's annexation threats, prioritizes U.S. tariffs

Canada's new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, on Friday launched his term in office with a wholehearted rejection of U.S. President Donald Trump's repeated threats to annex his northern neighbor.

Shortly after being sworn in as Canada's 24th prime minister, replacing Justin Trudeau, who had been in office since 2015, Carney said confronting Trump's tariffs would be a top priority.

Canada "will never, ever, in any way, shape or form, be part of the United States," he added, while voicing hope that his government could one day work together with Washington to advance the interests of both countries.

Officials said they were looking to set up a call between Trump and Carney in the coming days.

Ottawa has been rattled by collapsing cross-border relations since Trump returned to power in January, launching a trade war and demanding that Canada surrender its independence to become the 51st U.S. state.

Ottawa has retaliated against Trump's tariffs, while Canadian public opinion has been outraged as the U.S. president insists the border separating the countries should be erased.

Carney has characterized the Trump administration as the greatest challenge Canada has faced in a generation and has called U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods unjustified.

Carney appointed a new cabinet on Friday. The 24-member transition cabinet includes key figures responsible for managing Canada-U.S. relations.

Foreign Minister Melanie Joly remains in her post, while former Finance Minister Dominic LeBlanc retains oversight of the Canada-U.S. file as Carney's new international trade minister. Former Innovation, Science and Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne has been promoted to finance minister.

"This new, leaner, focused Cabinet includes returning ministers, seasoned leaders, and new voices who will bring fresh ideas and perspectives to the team as it delivers on the things that matter most to Canadians, such as strengthening Canada's economy and security," said the Prime Minister's Office in a statement.

After decisively winning the Liberal leadership last Sunday, Carney took over from Justin Trudeau, who officially tendered his resignation to Governor General Mary Simon before Carney's swearing-in ceremony.

It is widely believed that Carney will call an election before Parliament is scheduled to return in just over a week, meaning Canadians may vote in late April or early May.

(With input from agencies)