Martin rejects softwood negotiation
Terry Pedwell
Canadian Press
Friday, October 14, 2005
OTTAWA -- Prime Minister Paul Martin has warned U.S. President George W. Bush that Canada will wage its battle over softwood lumber in American courts -- and in the court of public opinion.
Martin spoke with Bush by phone Friday but the leaders failed to make any progress on the softwood issue. It was unclear which leader made the call.
But officials said afterwards that neither budged from his original position on softwood lumber during the 20-minute chat.
Bush maintained that he prefers a negotiated settlement, said officials for both Martin and the president.
"The president said he believes we need to get back to the negotiating table and try to find a lasting solution," said White House spokesman Scott McClellan.
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