Article content continued

Mulroney’s criticisms of the government’s approach on other issues were equally harsh, particularly on foreign affairs and the Conservatives’ tense relations with the United Nations.

“When Canada, for the first time in our history, loses a vote at the United Nations to become a member of the Security Council … to Portugal, which was on the verge of bankruptcy at the time, you should look in the mirror and say: ’Houston, I think we have a problem.”’

The former prime minister said the government’s foreign affairs policy “has to be enveloped in a broader and more generous sweep that takes in Canadian traditions and Canadian history in a much more viable way.

“We’re in the big leagues … so we have to conduct ourselves in that way. We can’t be out-riders.”

He also chastised Harper for his relationship with U.S. President Barack Obama, suggesting the prime minister doesn’t have the kind of close ties that allow him to call the Oval Office and ask for bilateral backup on a number of issues.

“If you can’t do that, you don’t have much clout internationally. The relationship with the United States is something the prime minister alone has to nurture the same way he would tend to the most delicate flowers in a garden. It’s that important.”

‘[Trudeau is] a young man, attractive, elected two or three times to the House, attractive wife, beautiful kids — this is a potent package’

While the 75-year-old Mulroney said he supported the government and “what they’re trying to do generally,” he suggested Liberal leader Justin Trudeau is going to benefit from what he believes is widespread public fatigue for the Tories.