Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and daughter Ella-Grace depart Ottawa on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2024, en route to South America. Trudeau will attend the APEC summit in Lima, Peru, and the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick
Canada and Indonesia Finalize Trade Deal Amid Concerns Over Global Cooperation
LIMA, Peru – Canada has wrapped up trade negotiations with Indonesia, marking a significant step toward a formal agreement with the world's fourth-most populous nation. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced the development during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Lima on Friday. The agreement is expected to be signed next year, strengthening ties between the two nations in areas like digital trade and renewable energy.
The discussions come at a pivotal moment, as fears grow over the potential global impact of Donald Trump’s re-election in the United States. Trump's previous presidency saw the U.S. withdraw from key multilateral agreements like the Paris climate accord and the Trans-Pacific Partnership. His recent campaign promises, including a proposed 10% import tax on all goods entering the U.S., have raised concerns among global trading partners and sparked debate during APEC meetings.
Canada Advocates for Multilateralism
Trudeau and his ministers emphasized Canada’s commitment to multilateral trade and international cooperation. Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly noted that Canada is seen as a key ally in navigating U.S. policies. "If there's a country that understands the United States, it’s Canada," Joly said, adding that numerous countries have sought advice from Canada on adapting to a potential second Trump presidency.
Joly also confirmed plans for Trump to attend the G7 summit in Alberta next year but highlighted the urgency of finalizing key agreements before his administration takes over. Discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken focused on advancing the Columbia River Treaty, which governs shared water resources between the two countries.
Trudeau's Southeast Asia Vision
In addition to trade, Canada is proposing nuclear-energy partnerships with Southeast Asian nations. Speaking at the APEC CEO summit, Trudeau outlined plans to help countries in the region address energy demands driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and other technologies. He described nuclear energy as critical for long-term economic planning and pledged Canadian expertise in developing the sector.
Trudeau’s government aims to leverage its Indo-Pacific Strategy, launched in 2022, to counter China's influence and promote sustainable growth in the region. Indonesia, with its rapidly growing economy and young population, is a key partner in these efforts. Subianto praised Canada’s collaboration in areas such as sustainable fishing and artificial intelligence.
Balancing Relations with China
While promoting partnerships in Southeast Asia, Canada also engaged in cautious diplomacy with China. Joly met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to discuss issues like air transport and fentanyl trafficking. She reiterated Canada’s stance against foreign interference, referencing an ongoing public inquiry into alleged meddling by China.
Trudeau's interactions with Chinese President Xi Jinping remain uncertain, with no formal meeting confirmed at APEC or the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil. However, Canada continues to stress its commitment to fostering balanced relationships in the region while protecting its national interests.
As global leaders navigate uncertain economic and geopolitical landscapes, Canada’s focus on strengthening multilateral ties and fostering sustainable energy solutions positions it as a proactive player on the world stage.
