Source: VCG

Prime Minister Mark Carney raised a few eyebrows after publicly praising communist Chinese President Xi Jinping’s “leadership” and openly referencing a “new world order” during remarks in Beijing on Thursday, as Canada’s government attempts to reset trade relations with the repressive regime.

Carney made the comments during a round table with Chinese officials in Beijing, as part of his first official visit to China. Speaking through a translator, he said Canada has been “heartened by the leadership of President Xi Jinping” and cited “rapid progress in the Canada-China relationship” in recent months.

“We are heartened by the leadership of President Xi Jinping, and the speed with which our relationship has progressed in recent months,” Carney said.

“This sets the stage for these important discussions on a wide range of issues where we can be strategic partners, from energy to agriculture, to people-to-people ties, to multilateralism, to issues on security,” he added, before saying: “I believe the progress we have made and the partnership sets us up well for the new world order.”

Carney’s phrasing quickly became a focus of debate in Canada, as he continues to face questions about balancing economic engagement with Beijing against long-standing Canadian concerns over national security and foreign interference.

Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, who joined the delegation and sat next to Carney during the roundtable, appeared visibly surprised at the “new world order” remark, according to observers travelling with the Canadian press pool.

The comments came the same day Canadian media reported that some members of the press travelling with the delegation were required to carry “burner phones” while in China due to concerns about electronic surveillance.

At a separate media availability, Global News journalist David Akin asked Industry Minister Melanie Joly — who was accompanied by Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson — whether China was “really the right kind of partner for Canadian industry.”

“Listen, we’ve been clear-eyed. We are eyes wide open,” Joly replied.

Carney’s visit comes amid ongoing trade disputes, including Chinese tariffs imposed last year on major Canadian exports such as canola products, pork and seafood. Ottawa has expressed hope of restoring a more pragmatic working relationship with China while continuing to raise concerns on sensitive issues.

Carney is also expected to hold additional meetings during the trip, including talks with senior Chinese leadership.

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