Key Takeaways
- Canada needs to be cautious of economic coercion as it rebuilds ties with China
- Prime Minister Mark Carney should prioritize Canada’s interests and values in negotiations with China
- Canada should be prudent about when and how it speaks out on China’s human rights record and other sensitive issues
- The country should be aware of China’s pattern of exploiting foreign access to its markets
- A successful visit by Carney to China could lead to expanded trade and investment in fields like energy and agricultural exports
Introduction to the Situation
Canada is seeking to rebuild its relationship with China after years of tension, with Prime Minister Mark Carney planning to make the first visit to China by a Canadian prime minister in nearly a decade. However, this effort is not without its challenges, as Canada needs to be clear-eyed about the risk of economic coercion from China. Michael Kovrig, a former Canadian diplomat in China and now a senior adviser on Asia for the International Crisis Group, has warned that Canada should be cautious in its approach to China. Kovrig, who was detained in China for nearly three years, has firsthand experience of the country’s tactics and is urging Carney to prioritize Canada’s interests and values in any negotiations.
The Risks of Economic Coercion
Kovrig’s concerns about economic coercion are well-founded, given China’s history of using its economic might to exert pressure on other countries. For example, China has imposed tariffs on Canadian canola and seafood exports, which has had a significant impact on these industries. Kovrig has stated that this is part of China’s pattern of exploiting foreign access to its markets, and that Canada needs to be aware of this risk as it seeks to expand trade and investment with China. He has also warned that if Canada stays quiet about China’s human rights record and other sensitive issues in exchange for economic benefits, it will allow Beijing to "condition it into silence." This is a delicate diplomatic dance to manage, as Canada needs to balance its economic interests with its values and principles.
The Importance of Prioritizing Values and Interests
Kovrig has emphasized the importance of prioritizing Canada’s values and interests in any negotiations with China. He has stated that it is ultimately about keeping hold of Canada’s values and integrity, and having a strategic approach that prioritizes its holistic national interests. This means that Canada should not be afraid to speak out on issues such as human rights and the rule of law, even if this means facing economic pressure from China. By taking a strong and principled stance, Canada can help to protect its interests and values, and avoid being exploited by China. Kovrig has also suggested that Carney’s goal should be to leave Beijing with a better mutual understanding of where Canada and China can co-operate, which would help to build a more stable and sustainable relationship between the two countries.
The Historical Context of Canada-China Relations
The current state of Canada-China relations is the result of a complex and often tense history between the two countries. In 2019, China detained Kovrig and Michael Spavor for more than 1,000 days in retaliation for the arrest of Chinese tech executive Meng Wanzhou at the Vancouver airport on a U.S. extradition warrant. This incident, known as the "Michaels-Meng crisis," highlighted the risks and challenges of dealing with China, and the need for Canada to be cautious and principled in its approach. Since then, Canada has been seeking to rebuild its relationship with China, but this effort has been complicated by ongoing tensions and disagreements over issues such as trade, security, and human rights.
The Potential Benefits of a Successful Visit
Despite the challenges and risks, a successful visit by Carney to China could lead to significant benefits for Canada. For example, it could lead to expanded trade and investment in fields such as energy and agricultural exports, which would help to boost Canada’s economy and create jobs. It could also help to improve relations between the two countries, and reduce tensions over issues such as trade and security. However, as Kovrig has warned, this will require Canada to be cautious and principled in its approach, and to prioritize its interests and values in any negotiations with China. By taking a strong and strategic approach, Canada can help to build a more stable and sustainable relationship with China, and protect its interests and values in the process.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
In conclusion, Canada’s efforts to rebuild its relationship with China are complex and challenging, and require a cautious and principled approach. As Prime Minister Carney prepares to make his visit to China, he should prioritize Canada’s interests and values, and be aware of the risks of economic coercion. By taking a strong and strategic approach, Canada can help to build a more stable and sustainable relationship with China, and protect its interests and values in the process. The success of this visit will depend on Canada’s ability to navigate the complex and often tense relationship with China, and to prioritize its values and interests in any negotiations. As Kovrig has stated, it is ultimately about keeping hold of Canada’s values and integrity, and having a strategic approach that prioritizes its holistic national interests.