● Trump-Era, Korea’s Survival: Key Factor.
From President Trump's provocation, suggesting Canada become the 51st state, deeply wounding Canadian pride, to the repercussions of the trade and political war between the U.S. and Canada, and various indications that Korea could be next…
This article first outlines when and how the trade conflict between Canada and the U.S. began, along with the timeline of President Trump's unconventional diplomatic style and its impact on domestic politics in both countries.
Furthermore, it examines in detail how Canada is attempting to overcome the crisis with retaliatory tariffs and political responses, given that 77% of its exports depend on the U.S., and how fundamental issues such as defense costs are affecting the alliance with the U.S.
Finally, it adds a forecast on how Korea might be affected when the Canada issue is resolved and the U.S. turns its attention to the next target.
Let's systematically organize this by group and item below.
[1] Start of Trade Conflict Between Canada and the U.S.
▶ President Trump's statement about becoming the "51st state" greatly wounded the pride of Canadians.
▶ At the time, Trump's remarks were more than just provocation; they were a signal of America First policies and the beginning of trade conflicts.
▶ Canada responded with retaliatory tariffs, facing a new phase in its existing alliance with the U.S.
[2] President Trump's Diplomatic Style and Strategy
▶ Trump has a noisy but effective style, employing aggressive policies in trade negotiations with various neighboring countries such as Japan and Mexico.
▶ Throughout his first and early second terms, he employed direct measures such as one-on-one negotiations, retaliatory tariffs, and pressure on defense costs, rather than multilateral cooperation.
▶ This behavior created tension and distrust among allies but at the same time left a strong impression on his supporters in the U.S.
[3] Canada's Internal Politics and Response Strategies
▶ The Canadian government seeks to turn the political crisis into an opportunity amid trade conflicts with the U.S.
▶ Despite the traditional alliance, it prepares bold measures such as retaliatory tariffs to protect national pride and economic autonomy.
▶ Internal conflicts have intensified within the political sphere over issues such as prime ministerial changes and re-elections, but it is difficult to create fundamental changes due to high dependence on the U.S.
[4] Fundamental Issues of the Alliance and Defense Cost Dispute
▶ The U.S. is dissatisfied with Canada's low defense spending as a percentage of GDP (approximately 1.4%).
▶ This pressure on defense costs affects trust and cooperation within the alliance and acts as a significant variable in long-term security policies.
▶ Despite joint projects such as Arctic military operations, fundamental economic and policy conflicts remain.
[5] Future Impact on Korea and Global Economic Outlook
▶ If the resolution of the Canada issue is delayed, the U.S. may target Korea next.
▶ During Trump's first term, Korea was already notified of FTA renegotiations following Canada.
▶ Along with this, thorough preparation is needed as global economic and policy issues such as defense costs and trade wars can also affect the Korean economy.
[6] Neighboring Countries: Cases of Mexico and Japan
▶ Mexico calmly responds and effectively counters Trump's policies.
▶ Japan also worked to secure economic and security benefits in negotiations with Trump through leaders such as Prime Minister Abe, but faced difficulties in issues such as tariff exemptions.
▶ Each country's response greatly impacts the U.S.-centric trade policy and the reorganization of alliances.
[7] Conclusion and Outlook
▶ President Trump's diplomatic strategy is powerful and unconventional but ultimately based on the economic and policy interests of the U.S.
▶ The conflict between Canada and the U.S. is likely to end in temporary tension, and both sides are expected to find a balance based on mutual benefits.
▶ However, the key point at this juncture is who the U.S. will pressure next after the Canada issue is resolved, which will greatly affect global economic alliances.
▶ Therefore, other allies such as Korea need to prepare countermeasures in advance and demonstrate strategic flexibility in negotiations with the U.S.
< Summary >
Canada-U.S. Trade Conflict and Korea’s Future Challenges
Trigger of the Trade War
Canada began to clash with the United States due to President Trump’s “51st state” remark.
Trade tariffs and retaliatory measures have caused negative political and economic repercussions in both countries.
Diplomatic Strategy and Alliance Changes
Trump’s unconventional diplomacy and pressure on defense costs have greatly impacted global trade policies.
Canada is highly dependent on the United States but is attempting an autonomous response.
Future of Korea
After the Canada issue, the United States may target Korea next.
Thorough preparation is needed in economic and policy issues such as defense costs and trade negotiations.
Keywords: Global, Economy, Trade, Policy, Alliance
[Related Articles…]
Analysis of Canada's Trade Conflict
Prospects for Korea's Defense Cost Negotiations
*YouTube Source: [머니인사이드]
– “잠깐 주춤한 미국” 트럼프 시대, 한국 생존은 ‘이것’에 달렸다 (조의준 대표 1부)

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