Prime Minister Mark Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping greet each other with a handshake during their meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Friday. The Canadian Press
Mark Carney met Xi Jinping on Friday at the Great Hall of the People, marking a key moment in Canada–China relations. The meeting formed part of Carney’s official visit to China and followed months of renewed diplomatic contact between the two countries.
Carney said Canada wants to move forward into what he described as a “new era of relations” with China. He told Xi that both countries had already signed several agreements this week covering energy, agriculture, and animal health.
Focus on Shared Priorities
During the talks, Carney said he felt “extremely pleased” with the direction of discussions and welcomed progress toward a new strategic partnership. He said Canada and China now plan to focus on areas where they can make long-term gains, especially in farming, energy development, and climate efforts.
“Together, we can build on the best of what this relationship has been in the past to create a new one, adapt it to new global realities to deliver stability, security and prosperity for our peoples,” Carney said.
Canadian officials present at the meeting walked alongside their Chinese counterparts through the grand halls as discussions continued behind closed doors.
Xi Welcomes Improved Ties
Speaking through a translator, Xi referred to his earlier meeting with Carney at the APEC summit in South Korea last October. He described that conversation as “a very good meeting” that helped change the tone of the relationship.
Xi said the discussions helped put China–Canada relations “on an upward trajectory.” He added that stronger ties between the two countries benefit not only their citizens but also global stability.
“A healthy and stable China-Canada relationship serves the common interest of our two countries ... it is also good for the peace, stability and prosperity of the world,” Xi said.
Trade Issues Remain on the Table
Despite progress in several areas, trade challenges continue. Before the visit, Canadian officials said they expected some movement on an ongoing tariff dispute involving electric vehicles and canola, though they did not expect a final resolution during this trip.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly said talks on tariffs remained active. She told reporters that negotiations continued and that Carney would share more details after completing his meeting with Xi.
Second Meeting, Bigger Stakes
This Beijing meeting marked the second face-to-face discussion between Carney and Xi. Their first meeting took place on the sidelines of the APEC summit, where both leaders agreed to reopen dialogue after a strained period.
With new agreements signed and further talks planned, both governments appear eager to rebuild trust while managing unresolved issues. Observers now wait to see whether the renewed tone leads to lasting cooperation.
