Canada is an ‘indispensable’ ally despite political tensions: U.S. admiral

The head of U.S. Pacific Command called Canada an “indispensable” partner in the Indo-Pacific and said military-to-military relations are removed from the current political and economic conflict between the two countries. Speaking to reporters in British Columbia Wednesday, Adm. Samuel Paparo talked up the importance of Canada-U.S. military cooperation for the mutual defence of the continent’s Pacific coast. Paparo’s comments come as U.S. President Donald Trump and his cabinet secretaries continue to attack Canada in media appearances and on social media after trade talks between the two countries fell apart last month. “Military-to-military relationships are such a serious foundation, they’re executed without emotion, they’re executed on the facts on the ground of a requirement to defend our spaces together,” Paparo told reporters in Victoria. “Militaries are designed to remain apolitical and ruthlessly focused on defence of the geography and the capability and the long term interests of the company. So while you do see political discussions take place, for military professionals, we’re always ruthlessly focused on the mission ahead.” Story continues below advertisement Canadians certainly have seen “political discussions take place” between the two countries over the last two weeks. Get daily Ottawa news Get daily Ottawa news delivered to your inbox so you'll never miss the day's top stories. BY PROVIDING YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS, YOU HAVE READ AND AGREE TO GLOBAL NEWS' TERMS AND CONDITIONS AND PRIVACY POLICY. The two countries appeared close to a trade deal last month, but discussions fell apart on Aug. 21. The Trump administration accused the Canadian negotiators of altering the deal on the table in the last minute, while the Canadian government has said the U.S. brought forward a deal that differed from what was discussed. Prime Minister Mark Carney reiterated Tuesday that the deal the U.S. side proposed included several non-starters — such as changes to French language and cultural rules, U.S. say over Canada’s trade deals with other nations, and changes that would threaten the long-term viability of the Canadian auto sector. MORE ON CANADA MORE VIDEOS Winnipeg woman saves father and child from drowning: WPS Rabies vaccine operation targets raccoons and skunks in Montreal parks Group prepares push for referendum on proposed downtown arena in Saskatoon B.C. government confirms gas revenue forecast errors worth $1.46B On Wednesday, U.S.…