"...But Gerald Ford liked Trudeau, which is why Canada was included in the G7. Being included in the G7 is about as influential as any middle power can ever hope to be. Canada has been at that table for 40 years...."
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Canada was included in the G-7 as the USA wanted another counterpoint to the Europeans who on a voting basis would always be able to set the agenda. In addition, at the time, Canada was a "missing piece" in the lines of trade. Each of the existing countries in the G-6 could see at least one of their major trading partners somewhere on the table. Far and away the largest member of the G-6 - the USA could not. This was Canada. This "voice" was deemed a necessary concession.

Nothing more, nothing less.

Nixon (you know the President who brought Ford on as VP, and also a Republican) hated Trudeau, it is hardly plausible that Ford was 180 degrees opposite in his opinion of him.

Seriously, you are entitled to your own beliefs, but not your own facts.