Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has accepted an invitation to visit China from President Xi Jinping. This development follows a 40-minute meeting between the two leaders on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit on Friday, marking the first direct engagement between a Canadian prime minister and the Chinese president since 2017.
Meeting Details and Invitation
During their meeting at the APEC summit, Prime Minister Carney accepted President Xi's invitation for a future visit to China. Following their discussion, both leaders directed their respective officials to "move quickly to resolve outstanding trade issues and irritants," according to a readout released by Carney's office.
Context of Relations
The meeting occurs after a period of strained relations between Canada and China, including a diplomatic dispute that began in 2018 and a trade dispute that started in 2024. Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Prime Minister Carney stated his belief that the relationship has reached a "turning point" that could lead to beneficial outcomes for the Canadian economy. He remarked, "Distance is not the way to solve problems, not the way to serve our people." President Xi also commented, stating that "China is willing to work with Canada to push China-Canada relations back onto a healthy, stable, and sustainable correct track" that benefits both countries.
Canadian Foreign Trade Strategy
This engagement with China aligns with Canada's broader strategy to diversify its trade relationships. Prime Minister Carney has indicated a desire to double Canada's non-U.S. exports within the next decade. This initiative is a response to rising trade tensions between Canada and the United States, including tariffs implemented by President Donald Trump on Canadian goods and specific critical sectors. Carney previously stated that this strategy includes strengthening trade ties with "the economic giants of Asia."