Former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chrétien delivered a direct message to the United States on Friday, stating, “Never mistake our generosity for weakness.” The remarks were made in Gander, Newfoundland, a town that famously sheltered thousands of stranded Americans in the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, attacks.
Chrétien, who was prime minister at the time of the attacks, addressed attendees at a ceremony commemorating the 25th anniversary of 9/11. He told his “American friends” that while Canadians are tolerant and kind, they “bow to no one.” His comments drew a standing ovation and were met with a hug from U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra.
“I say that not in anger, but as one friend to another,” Chrétien stated. “Friends need to be honest with each other.” These unvarnished remarks came during a solemn event honoring the nearly 3,000 victims of the attacks in New York, at the Pentagon, and on Flight 93, while also remembering Gander's exceptional response.
In 2001, Gander opened its doors to nearly 6,600 airline passengers and crew whose flights were diverted when U.S. airspace was shut down. The influx of travelers, known locally as the “plane people,” temporarily doubled the town's population. Residents of Gander and neighboring communities transformed schools, churches, and halls into shelters, providing food, medicine, and lodging to the unexpected guests.
Chrétien highlighted this act of kindness as an example of “the Canadian way,” emphasizing that Canadians act without hesitation when friends are in need. U.S. Ambassador Hoekstra thanked Gander and Canada for their support both during the crisis and in the years that followed. He described those who responded 25 years ago as “extraordinary people doing extraordinary things.”
Hoekstra’s presence at the event had sparked some controversy, but Gander officials defended their decision to invite him, stating that September 11 transcends politics. The story of Gander's response to the 9/11 attacks was later adapted into the Broadway musical “Come From Away.”
Chrétien's message comes at a sensitive point in Canada-U.S. relations, marked by trade disputes and tariffs. He reminded the audience of Canada's solidarity with the U.S. after the attacks, recalling that Canadians and Americans fought together in Afghanistan, where 165 Canadians died.
“Never mistake our tolerance for lack of determination,” Chrétien said. “And never, never mistake our kindness for softness.” He added that building a country with Canada's climate and geography is a testament to toughness, not weakness.
Chrétien concluded by advocating for a restored friendship based on mutual respect and good neighborliness. Hoekstra echoed this sentiment, referencing the shared history of sacrifice between the two nations, including Canadian involvement in liberating the Netherlands during World War II.
“We stood side by side,” Hoekstra said. Chrétien’s final words were a toast to both nations: “Long live the United States and long live Canada.”