President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25% tariff on nearly all US imports from Canada sparked immediate and forceful retaliation from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Hours after the executive order was signed, Trudeau addressed the nation and the American people directly, deploying a carefully calibrated blend of diplomacy and defiance.

Trudeau’s press conference in Ottawa served as a powerful counterpoint to Trump’s unilateral action. He acknowledged the long and intertwined history of the two nations, invoking shared sacrifices on battlefields from Normandy to Kandahar. “From the beaches of Normandy to the mountains of the Korean peninsula,” he stated, emphasizing the deep bonds forged through military cooperation and shared values. This appeal to shared history was a strategic move, designed to resonate with American audiences and underscore the absurdity of the trade war.

He directly challenged Trump’s rationale, arguing that partnership, not punitive tariffs, was the optimal path for both countries’ prosperity. “If President Trump wants to usher in a new golden age for the United States, the better path is to partner with Canada, not to punish us,” Trudeau declared. This carefully worded statement avoided direct confrontation while firmly asserting Canada’s position.

While acknowledging Canada’s desire to avoid escalation, Trudeau made it unequivocally clear that his government would not passively accept the economic harm inflicted by the tariffs. “We are certainly not looking to escalate. But we will stand up for Canada, for Canadians, for Canadian jobs,” he asserted, signalling a firm commitment to retaliatory measures.

He painted a stark picture of the potential consequences for American consumers and businesses, warning of job losses in the auto industry and increased costs for everyday goods. “Tariffs against Canada will put your jobs at risk, potentially shutting down American auto assembly plants and other manufacturing facilities,” Trudeau warned, highlighting the interconnectedness of the North American economy.

The tariffs, imposed on Canada, Mexico, and China, were justified by the White House as a response to a “major threat” from illegal immigration and drugs. However, the lack of specific criteria for lifting the tariffs left a cloud of uncertainty over the future of North American trade relations.

Trudeau’s response signalled a willingness to defend Canadian interests while simultaneously appealing to reason and the long-standing relationship between the two nations. The coming weeks promised to be fraught with tension as both countries grappled with the implications of Trump’s protectionist policies.

Amrit Udyan, the captivating gardens at Rashtrapati Bhavan (formerly known as the Mughal Gardens), invite visitors to experience a vibrant spectacle of floral artistry from February 2nd to March 30th, 2025. Open daily except Mondays, from 10 AM to 6 PM, the gardens offer free entry and are easily accessible via the Central Secretariat metro station (Yellow and Violet Lines).

This year’s display promises an even more breathtaking experience than previous years, boasting over 50,000 tulips alongside 140 varieties of roses and 85 other captivating flower species. Spread across 15 acres, Amrit Udyan offers a diverse range of themed gardens to explore. Wander through the serene Banyan Grove, admire the meticulously crafted Bonsai Garden, or let the children loose in the delightful Bal Vatika (Children’s Garden). The Central Lawn, Long Garden, and Circular Garden, each with its unique charm, invite leisurely strolls and moments of peaceful contemplation.

The Circular Garden, with its stunning central fountain, creates a truly mesmerizing spectacle, especially towards the end of the garden’s path. This year’s floral arrangements extend beyond simple displays; a functional floral clock adds a unique touch, while various aesthetic floral art installations punctuate the landscape, providing countless photo opportunities. For those eager to learn more, QR codes placed near each plant offer detailed information, turning the visit into an interactive learning experience.

Beyond the floral beauty, Amrit Udyan also hosts the Vividhta Ka Amrit Mahotsav from March 6th to 9th, a celebration of Southern India’s rich cultural heritage. This event features stalls showcasing handicrafts, textiles, and cuisine from all Southern states, accompanied by captivating cultural performances by invited artists. A food court and the MITTI Cafe (operated by differently-abled individuals) provide convenient refreshment options throughout your visit.

Remember that the gardens will be closed on February 5th, 20th, 21st, and March 14th. Last year’s visitor count neared nine lakh, and organizers anticipate surpassing that number this year. So, plan your visit to Amrit Udyan and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness awaiting you this spring. Don’t forget to explore the rainbow-themed walk, featuring specific flower locations arranged by colour (red roses, orange marigolds, blue pansies, etc.) for a visually delightful experience.

China issued a strong rebuke on Sunday following the Trump administration’s imposition of a 10% tariff on Chinese imports, a long-threatened action that had been looming. However, Beijing simultaneously left the door ajar for continued dialogue with the U.S., signalling a desire to avoid a full-blown trade war.

The Finance and Commerce ministries announced plans to contest the tariff, set to take effect on Tuesday, at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and to retaliate with unspecified countermeasures.

This response marked a significant departure from the immediate and sharp escalations that characterized China’s trade disputes with the Trump administration during his first term. The measured tone echoed Beijing’s more conciliatory rhetoric in recent weeks, suggesting a strategic shift in its approach to trade negotiations.

The decision to challenge the tariffs at the WTO, while a symbolic gesture mirroring previous actions against EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, highlights China’s commitment to utilizing international legal frameworks to defend its economic interests.

The tariffs, announced by Trump on Saturday, also included a 25% levy on goods from Canada and Mexico. Trump justified the measures by citing the need for China to stem the flow of fentanyl, a powerful opioid, into the United States. China’s Commerce Ministry responded by stating that Trump’s actions constituted a serious breach of international trade rules, urging the U.S. to engage in open dialogue and enhance bilateral cooperation to find a mutually acceptable resolution.

The most significant point of contention, however, revolved around the fentanyl issue. While the Biden administration had also pressed China to crack down on the export of precursor chemicals used in fentanyl production, China’s Foreign Ministry vehemently rejected the notion that it bore responsibility for the opioid crisis in the United States. In a sharp rebuke, the ministry asserted that fentanyl is fundamentally an American problem, emphasizing China’s past cooperation with the U.S. on anti-narcotics efforts and highlighting the considerable achievements made in this area.

This stark difference in perspective underscores the deep-seated challenges in addressing the complex issue of fentanyl trafficking within the broader context of Sino-American relations. The differing narratives surrounding fentanyl and the relatively restrained response to the tariffs suggest a calculated strategy by China to navigate the complexities of the trade dispute while firmly defending its national interests.