Canadian Sovereignty Defended by Foreign Affairs Minister Joly at Munich Conference

At the Munich Security Conference, Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly recalled a moment when she sharply addressed a group of U.S. senators for joking about Canada joining the United States as its 51st state. The comments, made during discussions led by Senator Lindsey Graham, prompted her to emphasize that Canada’s status as a sovereign nation will never be compromised, asserting that the country will always be a trusted neighbor and ally but never a state or colony.

During the same conference, Ms. Joly engaged with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other European leaders on several critical issues, including the potential implementation of U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and broader international security concerns. She noted that while some jokes about the idea of Canada being subsumed by the U.S. were made, such remarks underscored the need to respect national identity and leadership amidst the tension.

Moving beyond the issue of statehood, Ms. Joly also stressed the importance of a coordinated response with European partners should hefty tariffs be imposed, as both Canada and the European Union are prepared to defend their national security and sovereignty. In talks about enhancing defense measures, the conversation touched upon increasing trade in defense equipment, as illustrated by Canada’s recent move to kickstart a process to acquire new under-ice capable submarines—a measure aimed at signaling its commitment to bolstering defense at a time when its NATO allies are watching closely.

The minister further addressed broader geopolitical dynamics by dismissing proposals to reintegrate Russia into the Group of Seven, a decision that echoes previous actions taken following the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Despite differing views from figures such as former U.S. President Donald Trump—who suggested that Russia’s inclusion might have helped prevent the escalation of conflict in Ukraine—Joly firmly reiterated Canada’s and its allies’ dedication to supporting Ukraine and upholding international stability.