Ontario Premier Doug Ford emphasized the need for Canada to look beyond Donald Trump's presidency during his remarks at the U.S.-Canada Summit in Toronto on Wednesday. Ford stated that Trump has only three years left in office and will not be around indefinitely. His comments followed a meeting between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Trump at the White House, which ended without any agreements on tariffs.

"I always plan five, 10, 15 years down the road. We’ll get through it. There might be some bumps on the road, but I’ll tell you one thing. I will not roll over," Ford said. He noted that many politicians, including Republicans, are hesitant to speak out against tariffs. Ford believes Canada should play fair but is prepared to take a different approach.

He criticized Trump for targeting Canadian industries such as softwood lumber and steel unexpectedly. Ford pointed out that copper and auto parts, which are not included in the Canada-U.S.-Mexico free trade agreement, are also facing significant tariffs. He expressed frustration over the lack of a new trade deal following the recent meeting between Carney and Trump, stating, "As we’re decreasing the tariffs, he’s increasing the tariffs. Well, if we can’t get a deal, we have to hit him back twice as hard."

Ford described Ontario as an economic powerhouse, asserting that both Canada and the U.S. need each other. He mentioned that he would not allow American liquor back on store shelves until a trade agreement is reached. Regarding the auto sector, Ford highlighted its deep integration with the U.S. economy, stating, "You just can’t separate it overnight."

Trump claimed on Tuesday that the U.S. holds an advantage due to its "massive market." In response, Ford affirmed that Ontario would continue its century-long tradition of automobile manufacturing and noted Canada's significant role as a vehicle buyer.

When asked if Canada had missed opportunities to leverage its resources, particularly minerals, Ford expressed support for Carney but insisted on a tougher stance. He stated, "I would love to sell our critical minerals to our closest friends and allies — not foes."

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, also speaking at the summit, suggested that Canada’s minerals and energy resources could serve as leverage in negotiations with Trump. She advised that any approach should resonate with the president's priorities. "If you go to the U.S. president and say, ‘You should do this because it helps me,’ or ‘You should stop doing this because it hurts me’… That is not his love language," Smith explained. She added that Trump is a "relationship guy" and noted that the previous lack of a strong relationship with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau contributed to current challenges in U.S.-Canada relations.