From Friends to Rivals: The Deterioration of Canada-China Relations, Post-2015

Abstract

The article aims to analyze the events that led to deterioration of relations between Canada and the People’s Republic of China after 2015, when the Liberal Party, led by Justin Trudeau, came to power in Canada. Through the analysis of sources, texts, and case study, the article examines in detail both Canada’s role in these developments and the influence of external factors beyond Ottawa’s control. One of the key findings is that the Trudeau government, despise initial efforts to strengthen ties with Beijing, faced numerous challenges that necessitated a reassessment of its policy toward China. Events such as the adoption of provisions within the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), which constrained Canada’s flexibility in negotiations with China, and the escalation of tensions following Beijing’s restrictions on freedoms in Hong Kong, compelled Ottawa to distance itself from Beijing. The analysis highlights that while Canada’s actions played a significant role in shaping its relations with China, the deterioration was also a consequence of shifts in the global balance of power and inherent conflicts between Canada’s values and Beijing’s policies. The article provides insight into the complexity of diplomatic processes and political decisions that have influenced the current state of relations between the two nations.