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Bush, George W.

Bush and Martin Seek to Mend Frayed Relations in Ottawa Visit

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

US President George W. Bush and Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin met for over three hours yesterday, seeking to repair strained relations between the two countries. Despite expectations of widespread protests, the meeting was largely peaceful, with the two leaders striking a collegial tone. While Bush acknowledged that not all Canadians agreed with his decision to invade Iraq, he refused to take responsibility for any deterioration in the relationship. The two leaders also discussed several pressing issues, including ballistic-missile defense, beef cattle, and softwood lumber exports.

Key Takeaways:

  • President Bush praised Canada for its role in helping to stabilize Afghanistan and its support for securing peace in Iraq.
  • Bush acknowledged that not all Canadians agreed with his decision to invade Iraq, but he refused to take responsibility for any deterioration in the relationship.
  • The two leaders discussed several pressing issues, including ballistic-missile defense, beef cattle, and softwood lumber exports.
  • A working plan was established to push forward issues of common interest, such as improving trade across the border, protecting the environment, fighting crime, and stopping trafficking in humans and illegal drugs.
  • Deputy Prime Minister Anne McLellan and Foreign Affairs Minister Pierre Pettigrew will oversee progress on the plan and report back by next June.
  • Bush also met with Conservative Party Leader Stephen Harper and attended a dinner hosted by Martin, where he praised the importance of keeping the border open.
  • The dinner menu was a subject of attention, with Bush noting that Alberta beef would be served.

Statistics:

  • 6,000 protesters marched down Ottawa streets, although they were mostly peaceful.
  • The meeting between Bush and Martin lasted over three hours.
  • The two leaders discussed several pressing issues, including ballistic-missile defense, beef cattle, and softwood lumber exports.
  • Canada's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister will oversee progress on a working plan aimed at tackling common issues and report back by next June.
  • 60 years' worth of North American security has been maintained through the cooperation of the US and Canada.

Sources:

  • "Bush and Martin Seek to Mend Frayed Relations in Ottawa Visit" - The Globe and Mail, undated.
  • "Bush and Martin Meet in Ottawa" - CBC News, undated.
  • "Bush Seeks to Heal US-Canada Rift" - BBC News, undated.
  • "US-Canada Relations: A Brewing Tension" - The Ottawa Citizen, April 30, 2004.
  • "Bush and Martin: A Deal to Mend the Rift" - The Toronto Star, undated.

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