Canada-US Relations Strong, Problems Exist: Chretien

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Thursday, December 19, 2002

Canada-US Relations Strong, Problems Exist: Chretien

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Prime Minister Jean Chretien said Canada's relations with the United States are strong, but acknowledged that there are significant tensions between the two countries, local press reported on Wednesday.

He told local reporters the same day that he doesn't care what people think about his relationship with US President George W. Bush. It's a myth that he and Bush don't get along, he said.

He also admitted that there are significant tensions between the two countries, especially over trade, Iraq and Canada's defense spending.

The prime minister said he warned Bush as well as Bush's predecessor Bill Clinton that it's not politically appropriate forthem to be too close. "I don't think Canada should look like the 51st state of America. I am there to defend the interests of Canada, even if the guy is a great friend."

Meanwhile, he said Canada continues to believe that the United Nations must take the lead in dealing with Iraq once the report ofthe UN weapons inspectors is released.

"If the inspectors say 'We found nothing,' and Saddam (Hussein)says 'We have nothing,' at the moment the Americans will have to prove them wrong," said the prime minister.

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