Overview

• Canada's ambassador to China, Jennifer May, likens the current state of relations to a 'yellow light,' indicating caution but not hostility.
• May highlighted that while Canadian energy companies are making progress in China, sectors like agriculture face significant barriers due to Beijing's arbitrary measures.
• The ambassador emphasized the importance of diversifying Canadian exports in light of recent trade tensions, including China's complaint to the WTO and anti-dumping investigation into Canadian canola.
• May acknowledged that the ongoing foreign interference inquiry and recent tariffs on Chinese goods have caused friction but stressed the need for pragmatic engagement.
• Despite the challenges, May noted areas of cooperation, such as environmental initiatives, and underscored the importance of maintaining dialogue on issues like human rights and consular affairs.