Jean Chrétien says 'we bow to no one' in fiery 9/11 speech in Gander, N.L.
Former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien delivered a defiant speech at a 9/11 memorial in Gander, Newfoundland, emphasizing Canadian sovereignty. He criticized recent U.S. political rhetoric and trade tensions while addressing U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra.
Why it matters
The speech highlights growing diplomatic friction between Canada and the U.S. amid trade disputes and aggressive political rhetoric from the Trump administration.
Chrétien was the final speaker during a lengthy and nationally televised event. He began his speech by describing Sept. 11, 2001 "like a nightmare … one that can never be erased." And then recounted how Canadians stepped up, fought side-by-side with U.S. troops in Afghanistan — which drew loud applause.
But then, Chrétien's became the first person to speak on a subject no one else who stepped to the microphone would: the fractured political relationship between Canada and the United States.
"We bow to no one," Chrétien said to an audience that included Pete Hoekstra, the U.S. ambassador to Canada.
"And the more we are insulted or threatened and abused, the more we will stand up for ourselves and stand united."
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