Canada celebrates new bridge to US while fighting Trump tariffs

Key Points:

• Canada celebrated the completion of the Gordie Howe International Bridge over the Detroit River, a multibillion-dollar project set to open to traffic on Monday, enhancing trade, jobs, and tourism between Canada and the U.S.
• The bridge introduces competition to the nearly century-old Ambassador Bridge, promising faster and less expensive commercial truck transit between the two countries, with over 70% of Canada's exports going to the U.S.
• The ribbon-cutting event in Windsor, Ontario, lacked U.S. and Michigan officials due to recent trade tensions, including President Trump's announcement of 50% tariffs on Canadian goods, though Canadian officials emphasized unity and long-term friendship.
• Canada funded the $6.4 billion bridge construction, which began in 2018 and faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic; under a recent agreement, Canada will share some toll revenue with the U.S. government for 15 years.
• The 1.5-mile-long bridge, named after Canadian hockey legend Gordie Howe, will allow pedestrians and bicyclists to cross for free soon, serving as a symbol of the enduring bond between the two nations.