Struggle for Independent Identity-Canada

Incoming USA president Donald Trumps Claimed that Canada should become 51st American State (to avoid tariff) has sparked strong official criticism from Justin Trudeau (the outgoing PM) saying "there isn't "a snowball's chance in hell" that Canada would become part of the United States. Is this really a new show?. i think "No". There has been many such instances in long standing history between both nations. Some are pointed for reader's interests

1. Manifest Destiney: In 19th century, the concept of Manifest Destiny—the belief that the U.S. was destined to expand across North America—fueled discussions about Canada potentially becoming part of the United States and its Natural Extension. An identical manifest in now practices by Israel for annex Palestian Lands
2. War of 1812: During the War of 1812, the U.S. attempted to invade parts of what is now Canada, partly motivated by expansionist ambitions. However, these efforts were largely unsuccessful, and Canada remained under British control.
3. Annexation Manifesto (1849): A group of Montreal businessmen and politicians issued a manifesto calling for Canada to join the U.S. due to dissatisfaction with British rule.

Canada has long prided itself on being a principled nation, committed to multilateralism, peacekeeping, and human rights. However, its foreign policy in recent years often appears tethered to the interests of the United States, undermining its independent identity. From the Middle East to its strained relationship with India, Canada has frequently found itself aligning with U.S. priorities, even when doing so contradicts its national interests and values.

The Gaza Conflict: Following U.S. Rhetoric

Canada’s handling of the Gaza conflict exemplifies its inclination toward U.S. interests. In global forums, Canada consistently echoes American rhetoric, focusing on Israel’s right to self-defense while refraining from addressing the humanitarian crisis faced by Palestinians and the right for Palestinian State.

This alignment has led Canada to vote against UN resolutions that call for investigations into human rights violations in Gaza, isolating itself from allies in Europe and the Global South. Critics argue that this stance erodes Canada’s reputation as a neutral mediator, a role it historically embraced.

The Assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar and U.S. Priorities

The alleged assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Sikh leader, by Indian agents on Canadian soil in 2023 marked a significant test of Canada’s sovereignty. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian intelligence of orchestrating the killing, leading to a diplomatic standoff. Canada expelled an Indian diplomat, prompting reciprocal actions from India, including visa restrictions.

However, the situation took a turn when the United States refrained from fully supporting Canada’s stance. Focused on strengthening its strategic partnership with India to counterbalance China, the U.S. chose to remain noncommittal. This left Canada isolated, forcing it to de-escalate the issue despite the attack on its sovereignty.

Canada’s subdued response demonstrated its reliance on U.S. backing in international disputes. By prioritizing its relationship with India, the U.S. left Canada to navigate the fallout alone, highlighting Canada’s vulnerability in asserting its interests independently.

Economic Alignment: Keystone XL and Trade Pressures

Canada’s support for the Keystone XL pipeline is another example of its deference to U.S. interests. The project, designed to transport Alberta’s oil sands crude to U.S. refineries, faced significant opposition from environmentalists and indigenous groups. Despite Canada’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, the government backed the pipeline, aligning with U.S. fossil fuel priorities.

Similarly, Canada’s defense spending has been influenced by U.S. pressure within NATO, often diverting resources from domestic priorities to meet American expectations.

The Cost of Alignment

Canada’s frequent alignment with U.S. interests has led to several consequences:

1. Erosion of Sovereignty: Cases like Nijjar’s assassination highlight Canada’s struggle to assert itself independently in the face of external pressures.
2. Damage to Credibility: Canada’s perceived bias on issues like Gaza undermines its image as a neutral advocate for human rights and international law.
3. Strained Bilateral Relations: Its inability to sustain pressure on India while maintaining U.S. favor has damaged Canada’s diplomatic leverage globally.

The Path Forward

To reclaim its independent identity, Canada must:

1. Reassert Sovereignty: Take consistent, firm stances on issues affecting its citizens and principles, even when allies prioritize strategic goals over justice.
2. Diversify Alliances: Build stronger relationships with nations beyond the U.S. to reduce over-reliance and foster balanced foreign policy decisions.
3. Champion Neutrality: Return to its historical role as a mediator and peacekeeper, advocating for fairness and justice on the global stage.

Canada’s strength lies in its ability to balance strong ties with the U.S. while maintaining an independent voice. Failing to do so risks eroding its sovereignty, credibility, and identity as a principled global leader.