Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to journey to China next week, making it the first Canadian prime ministerial visit to the country since 2017. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) disclosed that during the trip from Jan. 13 to 17, Carney will engage in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping on matters concerning trade, energy, agriculture, and international security.
Carney emphasized the need for Canada to diversify its economy in response to global trade disruptions, transitioning from dependence on a single trade partner to establishing stronger and more resilient global economic ties. The prime minister highlighted the creation of new energy and trade partnerships, attracting significant investments, and expanding opportunities for Canadians.
During the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, in October, Carney had a brief meeting with Xi, where he accepted an invitation for an official visit. In China, Carney will have meetings with Premier Li Qiang and other key officials. Following his time in China, Carney is set to travel to Doha on Jan. 18 to meet with Qatar’s Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Subsequently, he will head to Davos, Switzerland, from Jan. 19 to 21 to engage with business leaders at the World Economic Forum’s annual gathering.
Trade tensions between Canada and China are expected to be discussed during the visit, with various trade disputes still unresolved. Canada imposed 100% tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in 2024, following the United States, citing the need to safeguard its domestic automobile industry. In retaliation, China imposed tariffs on Canadian canola seed imports, canola oil, meal, peas, as well as certain pork, fish, and seafood products.
Former China-based diplomat Michael Kovrig noted the ongoing challenges in Canada-China relations, emphasizing the importance of high-level diplomatic engagement to address disputes. Kovrig, who was detained in China along with another Canadian businessman before being released, expressed concerns about potential compromises on national security in pursuit of economic gains. He underscored the necessity for Canada to maintain a balance between expanding trade relations with China and safeguarding national interests.
Opposition Conservatives criticized Carney’s frequent international trips, questioning the outcomes for Canadians. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s office criticized the prime minister for what they perceived as excessive international travel, urging him to focus on reversing policies hindering Canada’s economic progress. Poilievre has been vocal about his skepticism towards the World Economic Forum, accusing it of undermining the working class and proposing a ban on government officials attending the annual event under a Conservative government.