Canada’s Prime Minister Invited to China Following First Leader Meeting Since 2017

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney accepted an invitation to visit China from President Xi Jinping today, signaling a potential shift in the strained relationship between the two nations.

The invitation followed a 40-minute meeting between the two leaders on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea. It marked the first time a Canadian prime minister has met with the Chinese president since 2017, a period marked by diplomatic disputes and escalating trade tensions. Carney has recently emphasized the need to diversify Canada’s trade relationships amid rising tariffs from the United States, a move that could significantly impact Canada’s economic future.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Carney stated, “Distance is not the way to solve problems, not the way to serve our people,” adding that he believes Canada and China have reached a “turning point” that will benefit the Canadian economy. President Xi echoed this sentiment, saying China is “willing to work with Canada to push China-Canada relations back onto a healthy, stable, and sustainable correct track.” Both leaders directed their officials to address outstanding trade issues, including Canada’s 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles and China’s retaliatory tariffs on Canadian agricultural products like canola. You can find more information about Canada’s canola exports here.

The move comes after a period of significant friction, including the detention of Canadian citizens Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig in 2018, and allegations of Chinese interference in Canadian elections, as detailed in a recent public inquiry. Yesterday, Xi Jinping also met with former U.S. President Donald Trump, and the two agreed to dial back their countries’ trade war. Officials stated that further discussions will be scheduled to solidify the path forward for both trade and diplomatic relations.