In a press conference after the debate, the prime minister details concerns about foreign interference and Chinese interest in the Arctic, just days before the federal elections.
During a debate held on Thursday night (17), Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said that China represents the greatest threat to the country's national security in geopolitical terms. The statement was made just days before the federal elections, scheduled for April 28.
When asked directly what he considered the main threat to Canadian security, Carney responded bluntly: “China.” The following day, at a press conference in Niagara Falls, he elaborated on his position, mentioning concerns about foreign interference by China in Canada’s internal affairs.
Carney also warned of China's growing interest in the Arctic region, which he said posed an emerging threat. "We are taking steps to address it," he said, without elaborating on what actions were underway.
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Concerns about foreign interference gain prominence
The issue of foreign interference has gained increasing importance in Canadian political debate. The allegation that China is trying to influence political and social processes in Canada is part of a series of recent investigations and allegations that point to attempts at espionage, influence in immigrant communities and indirect political financing.
Carney reinforced his government's position that Canada needs to protect itself from such attempts, calling China the main threat in this regard. The Chinese embassy in Ottawa was contacted by the press but did not respond to requests for comment at press time.
China and Russia criticized for alliance in Ukraine war
In addition to concerns about foreign interference, the prime minister also addressed the relationship between China and Russia. He stated that the partnership between the two countries strengthens the Russian position in the war against Ukraine, a conflict that has lasted more than two years and has mobilized Western countries in support of the Ukrainian resistance.
According to Carney, China's actions are not limited to indirect support for Russia. He also pointed to the Chinese presence as a broader threat in Asia, especially in relation to Taiwan, an island whose political status is the subject of dispute between Beijing and several countries.
Trade dispute with the US and international alternatives
Another point Carney raised was the ongoing trade war between Canada and the United States. Despite the long-standing partnership between the two countries, tensions have arisen in recent months due to the imposition of U.S. tariffs on Canadian products such as steel, aluminum and automobiles. In response, Canada has imposed retaliatory tariffs.
Carney said Canada does not intend to respond in kind in financial terms, but acknowledged that the global trade landscape is undergoing significant changes. “That level of shared values with the U.S. is changing, so our level of engagement will change,” he said.
In light of this scenario, the Prime Minister stated that Canada is seeking to expand its trade relations with other blocs and regions. He cited as alternatives the strengthening of ties with the European Union, the ASEAN bloc, Mercosur and other emerging economies.
Final stretch of the electoral campaign
Carney's comments come at a critical moment in Canada's election campaign. His Liberal Party is leading in polls but is facing a tight race with the Conservative opposition, which has also been exploring issues related to national security and foreign policy.
The direct mention of China and the criticism of the alliance with Russia in the war in Ukraine insert Canada more explicitly into the international geopolitical debate. At the same time, they reinforce the importance of foreign interference as a central issue in the 2025 elections.
Source: UOL
Trump threatens to annex Canada and the biggest threat is China on the other side of the world. They really haven't swallowed that the world power today is China, nor do they separate rare materials. The West knows that the Chinese are beasts at this. In fact, they are ahead in many things.