Canada marks opening of bridge connecting Ontario with Michigan

Canada marks the opening of a bridge connecting Windsor, Ontario and Detroit, Michigan, in a quiet celebration without US officials. This after a dispute over toll-sharing and new threats of 50% tariffs from US President Donald Trump further strained tense relations between the two countries.

The multibillion-dollar new bridge over the Detroit River between Canada and the United States was a multi-year project that will now serve as a critical path for trade, jobs and tourism between Canada and the US.

As the six-lane Gordie Howe International Bridge dominated the skyline behind them, officials lined up in Windsor, Ontario to hail the achievements

but without US and Michigan representatives.

Mark Wiseman Canadian ambassador to US said "This achievement, having one of the most fluid and secure high-volume border crossings in the world, is a testament to the long-standing partnership between Canada and the State of Michigan."

However Ontario's Premier Doug Ford pointed out the challenges they have faced with Trump's 50% tariff threat.

"Our relationship has been challenged over the last few years. And President Trump has threatened new tariffs just this month. But Team Canada has never been more united."

Gregor Robertson, Canadian Minister of Housing and Infrastructure said "Particularly since the new tariffs kicked in, there is work to do between our officials, between the prime minister and president to resolve that. We felt it's inappropriate to have a big joint celebration when we're working through those challenges. I think we're confident that we're going to work through this. We always do between US and Canada."

US President Donald Trump said in a post on social media was fine that Canada "disinvited" the US to the bridge's opening.

More than 70% of Canada's exports go to the US, making America its largest trade partner and Detroit is the number one port for truck traffic on the US-Canada border, according to the US Department of Transportation. The bridge will be open to traffic on Monday.