Jean Chrétien delivers blunt message to Americans at Gander 9/11 ceremony: ‘We bow to no one’ - Toronto Star

'Never mistake our generosity for weakness,' former prime minister tells gathering in Gander, N.L. and a national TV audience.

Former prime minister Jean Chretien speaks at the 25th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States, in Gander, N.L., Friday, Sept. 11, 2026.

OTTAWA — It was a tough message, cast as the hard truth Americans need to hear right now from their Canadian friends.

Former prime minister Jean Chrétien, speaking in Gander, N.L., during a day of emotional tributes to the victims of the 9/11 attacks, said Canada showed solidarity and kindness to Americans in their time of need 25 years ago and sent soldiers to fight and die alongside U.S. forces in Afghanistan. He warned, however, that the United States should not underestimate Canada’s resolve to resist attacks on its sovereignty.

Without ever mentioning the words “trade,” “51st state,” or “tariffs,” Chrétien gave voice to an unspoken undercurrent in the national mood, as dignitaries, singers and ordinary Canadians and Americans hailed the acts of international friendship 25 years ago.

“Yes, Canada is a generous, open country, and Canadians are tolerant and kind,” Chrétien said in a nationally televised address. “But never mistake our generosity for weakness.

“Never, never mistake our tolerance for lack of determination, and never, never mistake our kindness for softness.”

When Rosie DiManno arrived in Manhattan on Sept. 11, 2001, she found a terribly wounded city — but one already getting up off its knees.