In a significant turn of events, China is actively courting Canada’s backing to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a move that comes in the wake of a recent diplomatic visit by Canadian officials. Senator Clement Gignac, who recently returned from a trip to China, shared insights from his discussions with Chinese lawmakers, highlighting a shift in the tone of bilateral relations following a period of tension.
Diplomatic Engagements in Beijing
Senator Gignac, co-chair of the Canada-China Legislative Association, was accompanied by Liberal MP Zoe Royer on their diplomatic mission from March 14 to 21. Their itinerary included key cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenzhen, where they engaged with senior officials of the National People’s Congress. Gignac noted a markedly warmer reception compared to his visit a year prior, indicating a thaw in relations following years of strained interactions sparked by human rights concerns and trade disputes.
The senator reported that Chinese officials expressed optimism about Prime Minister Mark Carney’s efforts to reset ties between the two nations, suggesting that this new diplomatic climate could lead to increased trade and investment opportunities. “It was a completely different tone,” Gignac remarked, reflecting on the positive atmosphere during their meetings. He also announced that a delegation from China is scheduled to visit Canada later this year, signalling a mutual desire for enhanced bilateral engagement.
CPTPP Membership Aspirations
Central to Gignac’s discussions was China’s desire for Canadian support in its application to join the CPTPP, a major multilateral trade agreement which emerged after the United States withdrew from the Trans-Pacific Partnership in 2017. This agreement currently includes Canada, Japan, Australia, and several other nations, and has become increasingly appealing in light of rising protectionist sentiments globally.
“China would be interested in having the support of Canada regarding access to CPTPP,” Gignac stated, recalling Canada’s past assistance in helping China join the World Trade Organization. He acknowledged his lack of authority to make commitments on behalf of the Canadian government but expressed hope that Canada would consider supporting China’s bid for membership.
Addressing Economic Security Concerns
In addition to trade aspirations, Chinese officials sought clarity from Ottawa regarding which sectors of the Canadian economy might be deemed national security risks. Following a 2025 announcement from the Canadian government regarding heightened national security reviews for foreign investments in sensitive technology areas, including artificial intelligence and aerospace, Gignac emphasised the need for transparency. “It’s important for Canada to identify the sectors sooner rather than later,” he advised, underscoring the potential complications of delayed disclosures.
While Gignac refrained from delving into contentious topics such as China’s treatment of the Uyghur population or forced labour practices, he did advocate for the re-establishment of reciprocal visits for all Canadian parliamentarians, including those with critical perspectives on the Chinese regime. “It is important that we have reciprocity so that we normalise our relationship,” he asserted, referring to previous sanctions imposed by China on Canadian officials.
A New Era of Bilateral Relations
The delegation’s visit coincides with a broader effort by Canada to mend relations with China, which had deteriorated significantly following the 2018 arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Vancouver. The subsequent detention of two Canadians on espionage charges exacerbated tensions, but the release of all parties in 2021 marked a pivotal moment for reconciliation.
Gignac noted that optimism among Canadian and Chinese business leaders has grown in light of recent diplomatic engagements, particularly following Prime Minister Carney’s meeting with President Xi Jinping earlier this year. This summit resulted in agreements to boost trade, including a commitment to import 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles annually, alongside a reduction in tariffs on Canadian agricultural products.
Why it Matters
The developments from this recent diplomatic mission signal a potential shift in Canada-China relations that could reshape the economic landscape of the Indo-Pacific region. As China seeks to integrate further into global trade agreements like the CPTPP, Canada’s stance will be pivotal not only for bilateral ties but also for broader geopolitical dynamics. The outcome of these engagements could influence trade patterns, investment strategies, and diplomatic relations in a rapidly evolving international arena, highlighting the importance of careful navigation in foreign policy.
