Canada's Foreign Minister Melanie Joly expressed confidence in her country's ability to prevail in the ongoing trade dispute sparked by a series of tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump.

Speaking on the BBC's World Service Weekend programme on Saturday, Joly stressed Canada's importance as a trading partner for the US, stating: "We are the US's biggest customer. We buy more from the Americans than from China, Japan, the UK and France combined."

The US administration has implemented a 25% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum imports, with Trump also announcing plans to introduce broad "reciprocal" tariffs that will take effect from April 2, AA reports.

She noted that the impact of tariffs and rising costs is a major concern for Canadians, especially as they prepare for the upcoming federal election.

She stressed that the impact of the tariffs extends beyond Canadians to "hardworking Americans."

She suggested that American citizens could play a crucial role in resolving the trade conflict, adding: "We think that ultimately the only ones who will be able to help us win this war ... are the Americans themselves because they are the ones who can send a message to their legislators."

Joly, addressing speculation about a snap election, said the Liberal Party is "very keen" to secure "a clear mandate" to address Trump's tariff threats.

The minister also noted that Canadians want a leader with "strong values" and that they are "preoccupied" with developments in the White House.

Trump claims the tariffs will boost American manufacturing, protect jobs and reduce the trade gap. While he doesn't rule out a recession, he insists they are necessary. KosovaPress.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick called them "worth it" despite the economic risks.

Initially targeting China, Mexico and Canada – which account for over 40% of US imports – Trump accuses them of failing to curb migration and drug trafficking.