Anand Travels to China as Carney Seeks to Mend Ties with Beijing

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand is traveling to China this week in an effort to restore bilateral relations that have deteriorated due to an ongoing trade conflict. This visit marks a significant step towards facilitating a potential meeting between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping later this fall. The two leaders have not met since Carney assumed office.

Anand’s Mission to Mend Ties with Beijing

Anand’s visit to China, which has been confirmed for Thursday, will include discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi the following day. This trip is intended to stabilize Canada-China relations, fostering dialogue while prioritizing the interests of Canadian workers and industries. Anand remarked, “We need to stabilize the relationship,” signaling a commitment to enhancing communication with Beijing.

Background of Canada-China Relations

Since the onset of Mark Carney’s administration in January 2023, Canada has engaged in several high-level meetings with Chinese officials. These efforts come as Canada seeks to diversify its export markets, notably moving away from reliance on the increasingly protectionist U.S. market. Canada’s past actions, including the detention of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, have strained relations with China, resulting in a significant diplomatic freeze.

Trade Tensions and Diplomatic Challenges

The relationship was further complicated by the imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods, including a 75.8% duty on canola seed. This move was perceived as retaliation for Canadian tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and other imports. The ongoing trade war has particularly impacted Western Canadian provinces, such as Alberta and Manitoba. Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has urged Carney to reconsider these tariffs, arguing that they disproportionately affect the region.

• Tariffs imposed by China:
  • 75.8% duty on Canadian canola seed.
  • 100% tariff on Canadian canola oil, meal, and peas.
  • 25% tariff on Canadian seafood and pork products.
• Canadian tariffs on Chinese goods:
  • 100% tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
  • 25% tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum.

A Potential Meeting at APEC

Mark Carney and Xi Jinping are set to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in South Korea in late October. Officials from both nations are working to schedule a meeting that could serve as a pivotal opportunity to bridge their diplomatic gaps. Carney’s previous comments at the Council on Foreign Relations highlighted his intention for cooperation on climate change and clean technology, positioning Canada as a partner in these critical areas.

Looking Ahead

Anand’s upcoming trip will follow her visit to India, where she aims to repair ties strained by a high-profile incident involving a Sikh separatist. This signals a broader strategy by Carney’s government to reset international relations and enhance Canada’s global standing.

Experts believe that Canada can successfully engage in trade with China, particularly in agriculture and energy. However, they caution that Canada must prioritize its national security and economic interests in any negotiations.

As Canada navigates this complicated landscape of international relations, the focus remains on establishing a more stable and productive partnership with China.