Prime Minister Mark Carney aims to adjust expectations in Canada’s relationship with China during his upcoming meeting with President Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea. This meeting marks the first high-level engagement between the two nations since the 2018 arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, which led to a diplomatic standoff and the detention of two Canadians, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, by Beijing.
Carney, speaking to the press at the end of the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, confirmed the planned meeting with President Xi Jinping, emphasizing that it signifies the beginning of a broader dialogue. He mentioned a recent meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the UN General Assembly and highlighted that discussions will encompass various topics, including the commercial relationship and the dynamics of the global system.
Anticipating the meeting with President Xi, Carney expressed optimism and openness to addressing investment restrictions on Chinese capital, hinting at the possibility of negotiating a free trade agreement with China or lifting tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, in alignment with the United States. Recognizing China as Canada’s second-largest trading partner and a key global economic player, Carney emphasized the importance of rebuilding the strained relationship, acknowledging the significant room for improvement.
The last official encounter between a Canadian prime minister and President Xi was in 2017, where efforts to secure a trade deal proved unsuccessful, leading to subsequent deteriorations in relations following the arrest of Meng and the detention of Canadian citizens. Recent trade disputes, including reciprocal tariffs and sanctions, have further strained bilateral ties, with implications for sectors like agriculture.
Carney acknowledged the challenges faced in the current state of relations but expressed optimism for progress and enhancement in the future. The upcoming meeting between Carney and Xi symbolizes a pivotal opportunity to navigate through the complexities of the Canada-China relationship and potentially pave the way for constructive dialogue and cooperation.