BEIJING January 15, 2026 – Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, on a pivotal state visit to China, emphasized the rapid advancements in bilateral relations, declaring that the renewed partnership positions both countries favorably for a “new world order.” This statement came during meetings with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, marking a significant thaw in Canada-China relations after nearly a decade of tensions.
Carney, who arrived in Beijing on January 14 for the first such visit by a Canadian leader since 2017, oversaw the signing of a new energy cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing trade and investment in sectors like energy, finance, and sustainability. The agreement is part of Canada’s broader strategy to double non-U.S. exports by 2035, amid strained relations with the United States under President Donald Trump, who has imposed tariffs and threatened further economic measures.
In his opening remarks to Premier Li, Carney stated, “Under President Xi’s leadership, our teams have worked hard in the subsequent weeks and months to address some specific issues that had built up over time, but more than that to put in place the foundation for the new strategic partnership between our countries.” He added, “I believe the progress that we have made in this partnership sets us up well for a new world order,” highlighting potential for collaboration on global issues such as climate change, security, and economic stability.
The visit follows a meeting between Carney and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea in October 2025, which Carney described as a “turning point” in relations. Relations had soured since 2018 due to the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Canada at the U.S.’s request, leading to the detention of two Canadians in China and subsequent trade restrictions. Chinese officials welcomed the visit, with Foreign Minister Wang Yi calling it “pivotal” for recalibrating ties. However, no immediate breakthroughs were announced on lifting Canadian tariffs on Chinese goods, including electric vehicles and steel, which remain a point of contention.
Carney is scheduled to meet President Xi on January 16, where discussions are expected to cover further economic integration and global reforms.
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