Former Canadian prime minister Jean Chrétien delivers a message to the United States in connection with the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Speaking at a location in Canada associated with helping stranded Americans, he tells “American friends” that Canadians are tolerant and kind, and emphasizes that their generosity does not indicate weakness.
Chrétien, 92, was prime minister during the September 11 attacks and is described as receiving a standing ovation after making the remarks. Reports note that he frames Canada’s response as principled and self-confident—“we bow to no one”—while still highlighting the help Canadians offered to people affected by the attacks.
Across outlets, the core focus is the same: Chrétien’s call to the US not to misread Canada’s assistance as submission, alongside the anniversary context and the symbolism of the town that provided support to stranded Americans after September 11.
