Barack Obama: 'I hope our neighbours support Trudeau for another term'

Former President of the United States Barack Obama on Wednesday endorsing the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau, stated that "he hopes that the Canadians give Trudeau another term in office." Praising the Liberal leader, Obama further stated that Trudeau is hard-working and an effective leader, and that the world needs his "progressive leadership." According to reports, this is the second time Barack Obama has endorsed an international leader after he has left his office. Earlier in May 2017, he had endorsed France President Emmanuel Macron in a video. 

Obama-Trudeau relationship

Former US President Barack Obama and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had developed a close relationship in 2016 when the former had hosted a state dinner at the White House for Trudeau. According to news reports, Obama had publicly linked his own politics and agenda with Prime Minister Trudeau. He had stated that they have a common outlook on achieving for the nation. Praising Trudeau, Obama had stated that "his positive and optimistic vision is inspiring young people." After that, their last Prime Minister-President meeting was held at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in Peru in November 2016. Shortly after, President Donald Trump took over the Presidential position. After that, reports stated that Obama, in reference to maintaining a foothold for progressive politics against the rise of populism and nationalism had told Trudeau to "hold the top of the hill." Their relationship has remained strong ever since. After Obama left office in 2017, they had met in Montreal in March 2017 for dinner. The last they met was in June 2019 in Ottawa. 

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Trudeau stands for re-election

The Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau started his Federal reelection campaign on September 11. According to reports, he has sought permission from Governor General Julie Payette to dissolve Canada's parliament for Canada’s 43rd election which is scheduled on the 21st October.  Trudeau has been facing severe threats during his campaign. However, according to reports, he plans to continue campaigning as normal after wearing body armour the night before, on October 13.

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