Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly has revealed that Canada is actively formulating a strategic “game plan” to navigate potential outcomes of the upcoming presidential election in the United States. Joly, who has risen through the ranks since her initial election as the representative for Ahuntsic-Cartierville in 2015, spoke candidly about Canada’s preparations during a recent interview. Her comments have raised eyebrows and sparked conversations about Canada’s approach to potential shifts in American politics.
In an interview with a Montreal radio station, Joly emphasized that her department is diligently working on various scenarios that might arise from the U.S. presidential elections. With her experience and recognition as a young global leader by the World Economic Forum, Joly expressed the importance of collaboration across different sectors of society. “I will work with my colleagues and with the mayors, the provincial premiers, with the business community, with the unions, with everyone in the country, so that we are ready regardless of the election outcome,” she stated.
Drawing parallels to past experiences, Joly referenced the Canadian government’s dealings with the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump. She highlighted the challenges posed by shifts in trade policies during that time, indicating a need for strategic planning to safeguard Canadian interests.
Notably, Joly’s concerns extended beyond U.S. politics, as she addressed the broader issue of the rise of far-right ideologies. She acknowledged that this trend is not limited to the United States, citing its occurrence in Europe as well. Joly underscored the significance of preventing the growth of such ideologies within Canada’s borders.
In the interview, Joly expressed apprehension about the potential radicalization of the Conservative Party in Canada. She cautioned against underestimating the influence of these ideologies within Canadian politics, urging vigilance in safeguarding the nation’s democratic values.
Joly’s comments echo her past stance on political interference, as evidenced by her statements in February 2022. During that time, she condemned what she perceived as foreign interference in Canadian affairs. She specifically pointed to disinformation campaigns and external financing of domestic movements, such as the Freedom Convoy protests against vaccine mandates.
NEW: We chatted with Foreign Minister Melanie Joly as she enjoyed ice cream. I don’t think she enjoyed my questions.
Please https://t.co/Px2brsDReX so we can do more of this. pic.twitter.com/AC1O6zfZhf— Keean Bexte (@TheRealKeean) August 22, 2023
