Prime Minister Mark Carney told reporters that he is seeking to “reopen dialogue with Chinese authorities” when discussing his government’s internal trade bill at a Friday press conference.
When asked if he “trusts China” Carney replied, “This is the start of the process of recalibrating the relationship with China; it’s very important that we reopen dialogue with Chinese authorities for several reasons.”
Carney subsequently mentioned the issues of focus on Canada-China relations, citing trade disputes, tariffs, and fentanyl.
On Thursday, Carney spoke with the Premier of China, Li Qiang. The two discussed trade and agreed to convene the Joint Economic and Trade Commission soon to address trade issues.
The PMO statement claims that Carney spoke directly on canola, seafood tariffs, and the fentanyl crisis.
Farmers and fishers across Canada are being affected by Chinese tariffs, which have been imposed since March of this year: 25 per cent on aquatic products, pork and 100 per cent on canola oil, oil cakes and pea imports from Canada.
Carney was also asked about Indian Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, and why he was being invited to Canada.
A legal process is underway in Canada allegedly linking Modi’s government to the June 2023 assassination of Khalistani militant Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia.
“My message is: we are a country of the rule of law, the rule of law is proceeding as it should in Canada, and I am not going to disrupt that process,” said Carney, refusing to share any further details on the matter.
Modi is set to visit Canada when travelling to the 51st G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, which starts on June 15.
Carney extended a personal invitation to Modi on Friday during their call, according to the PMO.