Prime Minister Mark Carney aims to shift expectations in Canada’s ties 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 encounter between the leaders of both nations since bilateral relations deteriorated following the 2018 arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou on a U.S. extradition request, leading to China detaining two Canadians, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor.
Carney confirmed the meeting during discussions with reporters at the conclusion of the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He described the meeting as the beginning of a broader dialogue, referencing a recent encounter with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the UN General Assembly.
The discussions are set to encompass a wide array of topics, including the commercial relationship and the evolution of the global system. Carney expressed anticipation for the meeting with President Xi Jinping.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump is aiming to arrange a meeting with Xi following the announcement of a framework for a potential trade agreement between the two countries. Carney hinted at the possibility of easing investment restrictions imposed on Chinese capital by the previous Liberal government, led by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He also indicated openness to negotiating a free trade deal with the strict communist regime or lifting tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, which were introduced by Canada in 2024 in alignment with the United States.
Carney emphasized the gradual rebuilding of relationships over time, especially when they have deteriorated. He highlighted that China is Canada’s second-largest trading partner, boasts the world’s second-largest economy, and wields significant global influence.
The latest official meeting between a Canadian prime minister and Xi Jinping took place in 2017 under the Trudeau administration, where efforts to secure a trade deal were unsuccessful. This was followed by strained relations due to the arrest of Meng and the detention of Kovrig and Spavor. Recent retaliatory actions by Beijing included sanctions in response to Canadian tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum. Additionally, China imposed duties on Canadian canola seed in August, adversely affecting farmers in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
Carney acknowledged that bilateral relations are commencing from a low point but expressed optimism for substantial improvement in the future.
