Canada warned to stop dragging U.S. into election (U.S. ambassador) [View All]

In a pointed rebuke to campaigning politicians, U.S. Ambassador to Canada David Wilkins warned Tuesday that they risk hurting the relationship between the two countries when they use anti-American rhetoric to "score political points."

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"Just think about this. What if one of our best friends criticized you directly and incorrectly almost relentlessly? What if that friend's agenda was to highlight your perceived flaws while avoiding mentioning your successes? What if that friend demanded respect but offered little in return?" Wilkins asked in a speech to the Canadian Club at the historic Chateau Laurier Hotel, next door to Parliament Hill in Ottawa.

"Wouldn't that begin to sow the seeds of doubt in your mind about the strength of the friendship?"

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"It may be smart election-year politics to thump your chest and constantly criticize your friend and your No. 1 trading partner," Wilkins said.

"But it is a slippery slope, and all of us should hope that it doesn't have a long-term impact on the relationship."

http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20051213/wilkins_canada_051213/20051213?s_name=election2006