Canada's Carney Visits Asia, Seeks Xi Meeting

Canada's Carney Visits Asia, Seeks Xi Meeting
Above: Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney on Oct. 23, 2025. Image copyright: Lance McMillan/Toronto Star/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

The Carney administration recently reduced tariffs on certain Chinese metal products, as well as some U.S. steel and aluminum, relieving some of the pressure on Canada’s domestic industry. By fostering a positive relationship with both Trump and Xi, Carney hopes to pave the way for a strong trade deal at the APEC summit.

Opposition narrative

By pivoting toward China under the guise of “diversification,” Carney risks weakening Canada’s alliance with the U.S. and its democratic partners. Deepening economic ties with Beijing exposes Canada to coercion, reduces leverage with Washington, and heightens risks for firms facing China’s state-driven economy.

Pro-China narrative

By intentionally strengthening economic ties with China, Canada can access one of the world’s fastest-growing large-scale markets and thereby reduce over-dependence on the United States. Embracing pragmatic trade engagement with China opens up major opportunities for Canadian exporters.

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© 2025 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.17.1

© 2025 Improve the News Foundation.

All rights reserved.

Version 6.17.1