I didn't call you governor: Hot mic catches Trump trolling ex-Canada PM in Egypt

US President Donald Trump sparked laughter and raised eyebrows at the Gaza Peace Summit on Monday when he mistakenly addressed Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as 'President'. The summit, held at Egypt's coastal resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, brought together world leaders to sign a peace deal between Israel and Hamas.

"You have Canada. That's so great to have. In fact, the President called, and he wanted to know if it was worth - well, he knew exactly what it is. He knew the importance. Where's Canada, by the way? Where are you? He knew the importance of this," Trump said, apparently unaware of his error.

After the speech, Carney shook hands with Trump, but the moment took an unexpected turn when a hot microphone picked up a rare unscripted exchange between the two leaders.

"Thanks for upgrading me to President," Carney joked.

Trump, 79, immediately realised the mistake, smiled, and patted Carney's shoulder, replying, "Oh, did I say that?" He then turned the gaffe into a witty dig at Carney's predecessor, Justin Trudeau, adding, "At least I didn't call you a governor".

The remark revived a December 2024 incident when Trump, then President-elect, had referred to Trudeau as the "Governor of the Great State of Canada" in a Truth Social post.

At that time, he wrote, "It was a pleasure to have dinner the other night with Governor Justin Trudeau of the Great State of Canada. I look forward to seeing the Governor again soon so that we may continue our in-depth talks on Tariffs and Trade, the results of which will be truly spectacular for all! DJT."

Over the years, Trump has occasionally teased the idea of Canada as the 51st US state. However, despite his latest gaffe, the meeting with Carney proceeded smoothly, with both leaders exchanging pleasantries.

The summit itself turned into an endorsement of sorts for the US President, as global leaders praised him from the podium while he stood beside them, clapping, cheering, and observing the signing ceremony.

- Ends