Carney Labels China as Canada's Top Security Threat, Highlights Trade Concerns

Prime Minister Mark Carney identified China as a significant threat to Canada, particularly regarding foreign interference. He also highlighted China's growing presence in the Arctic as a concern.

During a federal leaders’ debate, Carney directly named China when asked about Canada's primary security threat. He later elaborated on this at a news conference, emphasizing the need to counter Chinese interference. He also criticized China's partnership with Russia in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and its perceived threat to broader Asia, specifically Taiwan.

Carney described China as the biggest threat "from a geopolitical sense." The Chinese embassy in Ottawa did not immediately offer a response to these statements.

The campaign is entering its final phase, with Carney's Liberal Party currently leading in the polls.

Canada is also involved in a trade dispute with the United States. Retaliatory tariffs have been imposed by Canada in response to U.S. tariffs on various Canadian goods. Carney stated that Canada would not necessarily match the U.S. dollar for dollar in retaliation, but acknowledged a shift in the global trading system.

Carney suggested that Canada should explore opportunities for engagement beyond the United States and China. He pointed to Europe, ASEAN, and Mercosur as regions where Canada could deepen its relationships.