Examination of the Long-standing Influence of Public Opinion on Ottawa’s China Policy
According to Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, Ottawa-Beijing relations cannot be “reset” due to Canadians’ mistrust of China. This is consistent with past public sentiment that has restrained leaders from pursuing closer ties with Beijing.
Former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney’s private dinner with China’s vice president in 1993 was seen as a “signal” to Beijing that Canada was willing to engage cautiously despite human rights concerns.
Author Jonathan Manthorpe suggests that the caution in engaging with China may have been driven by domestic political concerns over human rights abuses.
Public opinion has played a significant role in shaping Canada’s relationship with China. Ms. Joly’s recent visit highlighted the negative view Canadians hold towards China, impeding any formal reset in relations.
