Stephen Harper on United States
TL;DR
Stephen Harper views the United States as Canada's most vital ally, emphasizing deep economic and security integration.
Key Points
He advocated for the completion of the Canada-United States Free Trade Agreement and its successor agreements.
He has stated that Canada’s challenges cannot be solved without the American relationship functioning, even when critical of American leaders.
Following his time in office, Stephen Harper made public statements regarding the need for national unity in Canada, separate from US political events.
Summary
Stephen Harper, during and after his tenure as Prime Minister, consistently framed the relationship with the United States as foundational to Canadian interests, prioritizing strong bilateral ties for economic prosperity and security. He has often argued that despite occasional political disagreements, the deep integration of the two economies, particularly through free trade, necessitates a cooperative approach and that Canada's difficulties cannot be solved without a functional relationship with its southern neighbor. His perspective suggests that while Canada must assert its sovereignty, it should do so within a framework of pragmatic partnership, viewing the U.S. relationship as paramount over other international ones.
Since leaving office, the former Prime Minister has offered commentary on contemporary American politics, expressing views on its internal challenges, such as immigration. He suggested the country should address its difficulties but noted that domestic Canadian political issues should not be framed solely in opposition to the American political situation. His commentary indicates a continued, sober engagement with the dynamics of the closest global partner, stressing the need for stable, functional governance in the U.S. for the benefit of Canada.
Key Quotes
I love the United States but I'm not American. I think our country is different and worth preserving.
The big problem you have here [in the U.S] is that it is way too difficult for someone to become a legal immigrant and way too easy for them to become an illegal immigrant.
If America is saying, "We're sick of supporting you guys. Just go away," and Europeans are saying, fingers wagging, "You're wrong; come back and serve us." That's not viable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stephen Harper maintains that the relationship with the United States is the most important and critical foreign policy file for Canada. He views the deep economic and security integration as non-negotiable, requiring a pragmatic and cooperative approach from Ottawa.
Yes, the former Prime Minister has offered commentary on contemporary American politics, including observations on its immigration issues. He generally approaches these topics by linking them back to the necessary stability of the US for Canadian interests.
While calling for national unity in Canada, he suggested that domestic difficulties should not be viewed solely through the lens of the political situation in the US. He maintains that Canada must manage its own affairs independently.
Sources8
Stephen Harper says no reason why we can't pull the country together in fireside chat with Chretien
Stephen Harper on Trump, national unity and why Canada's problems aren't America's fault
North Star: Stephen Harper on Trump, Trudeau and Canada’s future
Stephen Harper speaks at gala honouring his 2006 election win
Former prime ministers Harper, Chrétien call for national unity to counter 'balkanization' fears
Harper says Canada's difficulties can't be solved without a functional relationship with the U.S.
Stephen Harper says the country should make any settlement with the U.S. on softwood lumber
Stephen Harper: America’s Immigration Problem, Free Trade, and Fighting Tough
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.