Canadian Foreign Minister States that Canadians’ Unfavorable Opinion of Beijing is Hindering a Potential Improvement in Relations
“There are many things that we need to do before a formal reset. There are too many aspects core to our relationship that need to be addressed, including foreign interference, including trade issues.”
Ms. Joly told The Globe she raised the issue of foreign interference as well as human rights, Taiwan, and Hong Kong during her meeting with her Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.
Global Affairs Canada’s formal statement about the visit said the minister reaffirmed her “commitment to pragmatic engagement with China and the development of sound and stable bilateral relations that advance and protect Canadian interests, contribute to security and stability, and enhance deep and historic people-to-people ties.”
Under the One-China policy adopted since 1970, Ottawa recognizes the People’s Republic of China (PRC) as the government of China, and takes “note” of the PRC’s position toward Taiwan, without endorsing or challenging it.
The two ministers also discussed topics related to trade and “environmental protection and climate response,” as well as combatting illegal drugs like fentanyl, the Canadian statement said.
A media statement from China said the two countries should “inject momentum into the restoration of normal relations between the two countries.” It added that the topics of Taiwan, Tibet, Xinjiang, and Hong Kong are off limits, saying there is “no external interference” allowed.
An ongoing public inquiry is currently examining China’s interference in Canada. Different parliamentary committees are also probing China’s meddling efforts, and the RCMP recently launched a special program in Quebec to address the Chinese regime’s increased harassment against the diaspora.