Canada axes joint bridge-opening with US after Trump hikes tariffs

A planned joint US-Canada ceremony Friday celebrating the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, is no longer expected to take place after US President Donald Trump announced a 50% tariff on most Canadian goods.

In announcing the tariffs, Trump accused Canada of unfairly discriminating against US automobiles, alcohol and dairy products, escalating tensions with one of the United States' closest allies.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said Tuesday that he and Donald Trump have agreed to intensify negotiations on a trade agreement between Canada, the US and Mexico following America’s latest move.

A spokesperson for Canadian Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson, in an emailed statement said it would be inappropriate to continue with a celebration amid tensions between the nations.

Canada now plans to hold its own ceremony Friday. It is now unclear whether the United States will hold a separate ceremony.

The 2.4-kilometer-long bridge spans the Detroit River and connects Detroit with Windsor. A ribbon-cutting ceremony had initially been scheduled for June 12 but was abruptly postponed after officials said the United States and Canada were still working to resolve "outstanding issues."