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Chretien warns US in 9/11 speech
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Jean Chrétien told the U.S. at a Gander 9/11 ceremony not to mistake generosity for weakness.
The 92-year-old ex-PM's message lands amid a Canada-U.S. trade war.
Background
Chrétien was Canada's prime minister during the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, when Gander, Newfoundland took in thousands of stranded airline passengers. The 2026 event marked the 25th anniversary of those attacks. His speech came amid current Canada-U.S. tensions, including a trade war.
How it unfolded
- Sep 11, 2026Jean Chrétien spoke in Gander, N.L. at the 25-year commemoration of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks, telling the U.S. not to 'mistake our tolerance for lack of determination.'
- Sep 11, 2026Chrétien, 92, reminded 'our American neighbours that Canada's generosity, amongst other traits, should not be considered weakness.'
- Sep 11, 2026He drew a standing ovation inside a Gander hockey arena as he delivered a pointed message to Americans.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Chrétien said 'Never mistake our generosity for weakness,' that Canada bows to no one, and that 'We know who we are, and we are proud.'
- Official
- The U.S. consul general said 'Our relationship will survive current tensions' at the event for Canadian 9/11 victims.
- Party
- Poilievre told U.S. TV that Canadians are 'wounded' and 'confused' to be in America's crosshairs.
- Official
- Manitoba's premier said Canada-U.S. ties are 'so much stronger' than trade war divisions.