• Mark Carney's visit to China is the first by a Canadian PM since 2017.
• China and Canada aim to reset ties and deepen cooperation in various sectors.
• Trade relations are a focus, particularly regarding past tariffs imposed by both nations.
• Discussions include clean energy, agriculture, and international frameworks like the UN.
• Leaders emphasize the importance of maintaining open communication to resolve trade issues.

During Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's four-day visit to China, he and Chinese officials expressed a desire to improve bilateral relations, marking the first visit by a Canadian PM to China since 2017. Carney's discussions with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Premier Li Qiang highlighted a mutual willingness to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and trade. Wang emphasized the aim to "eliminate interference" and foster "mutual trust" between the two nations, essential for steady and substantive ties, according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.

Premier Li Qiang described the relationship as at a "new starting point" and highlighted the importance of deepening cooperation to uphold multilateralism and free trade. He stated that both countries should work towards a "turnaround" in their relations, advocating for enhanced dialogue and communication. Carney echoed this sentiment, proposing a strategic partnership that strengthens ties in diverse areas, underscoring the interdependence of Canada and China in today's global landscape. This perspective was supported by South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera.

Trade issues have been a major concern, particularly following tariff disputes initiated by Canada and retaliatory actions from China. Canada imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in 2024 due to perceived unfair advantages caused by state subsidies. In retaliation, China responded with tariffs on Canadian agricultural products, leading to a significant drop in imports from Canada last year. Carney's visit aims to address these "trade irritants" and establish platforms for new opportunities between the two countries, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.

During the trip, Carney and Chinese leaders advocated for cooperation across various domains including clean energy, agriculture, and advanced manufacturing. Discussions included pathways to enhance investment flows and trade relations, particularly as Canada seeks to diversify its economic ties away from dependency on the U.S. market. Carney stated, "A pragmatic and constructive relationship between our nations will create greater stability, security, and prosperity on both sides of the Pacific." This was reported by South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera.

Amidst global divisions, Carney emphasized that cooperation between Canada and China serves as a model for resolving issues both bilaterally and within international frameworks such as the United Nations. The discussions from this visit signal a notable shift towards rekindling relations and addressing historical challenges faced by both countries, particularly in trade. Both leaders underscored the importance of creating an environment conducive to dialog and partnership moving forward, aligning with sentiments expressed by sources Reuters, South China Morning Post, and Al Jazeera.