Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney departed for China on Tuesday for his country’s first prime ministerial visit to Beijing since 2017, a trip aimed at discussing trade and international security as Canada seeks new partnerships amid uncertain relations with the United States.
The visit, scheduled from January 14–17, could signal a critical shift in ties after years of strain, including the fallout from Canada’s 2018 arrest of the chief financial officer of Huawei and subsequent diplomatic tensions.
Senior Canadian officials said Carney is expected to sign several memoranda under discussion, with the potential for deals or future commitments. Former senior adviser Greg MacEachern said he anticipates concrete outcomes. “When the Prime Minister is invited to China, it is not for window dressing,” he said, noting the move will be watched closely in Washington. “There’s a political risk this could upset President Trump, but Prime Minister Carney clearly wants to send the message that Canada is open for business.”
Officials indicated possible increases in Canadian crude exports to China, with Canada historically sending about 90 % of its oil to the U.S., where reduced demand from expected Venezuelan imports could shift dynamics. While progress is expected, officials cautioned that China likely will not lift tariffs on Canadian canola exports during this visit.
China’s foreign ministry said it looks forward to deepening mutual trust during the visit, and Chinese commentary suggests both sides “want to signal their good intentions.” “Both Canada and China want to signal their good intentions, so they each need to give away something,” said University of Toronto professor Lynette Ong.
The trip comes amid broader efforts by Canada to reduce reliance on the U.S. market and diversify global trade ties, with Carney’s engagement seen as part of that strategic pivot.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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