Mark Carney, former governor of Canada’s central bank, has been sworn in as the country’s new Prime Minister. Following his oath-taking ceremony Carney addressed reporters firmly stating that Canada will never become part of United States.

He dismissed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s suggestion of Canada becoming the 51st US state as “nonsense.” Carney also mentioned that his new administration is preparing to handle a potential trade war with US President Donald Trump.

Carney succeeds Justin Trudeau marking end of Trudeau’s leadership era. Swearing-in ceremony took place on Friday in presence of Governor General Mary Simon, alongside other notable figures, including King Charles’ personal representative.

After taking oath Carney shook hands with Governor General Simon and participated in a photo session. He later signed important documents to formally assume his new role.

In Carney’s new cabinet, Dominic LeBlanc has been appointed Minister of International Trade and Intergovernmental Relations while François-Philippe Champagne takes over as Finance Minister.

Former Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland now leads Ministry of Transport and Internal Trade.

During his press conference, Carney addressed both domestic and diplomatic concerns. When questioned about Canada-US relations, he reiterated that Canada would never become part of United States and criticized Rubio’s remarks as “absurd.”

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Carney expressed his willingness to engage in diplomatic talks with President Trump to resolve ongoing issues.