New Dialogue: Canada and China Begin the Path to Resetting Relations

The meeting between Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the APEC Summit in Gyeongju, South Korea, marked a turning point in Canada-China relations. It was the first high-level meeting in eight years, signaling a move toward renewed dialogue after a period of tension.

The 39-minute talks, initiated by China, focused on trade and cooperation — including Canadian canola, seafood, and electric vehicles. Both sides agreed to speed up the resolution of existing disputes and develop a framework for collaboration in energy, agriculture, and climate policy.

Xi Jinping congratulated Carney on his appointment and noted the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties. He said the relationship shows a trend of recovery and positive development. Carney replied that “distance is not the way to solve problems” and expressed readiness for pragmatic dialogue.

Carney also accepted an invitation to visit China. For Ottawa, the meeting opens a new chapter — not only in trade, but also in Canada’s evolving geopolitical strategy.