Carney’s China Trip: Can Pragmatism Trump Principle When Canadian Values Are on the Line?

Let’s be clear: healthy trade relationships are vital for Canada’s prosperity. The impacts of canola tariff disputes are felt acutely by farmers across the prairies. However, we cannot afford to compartmentalize our economic interests from our unwavering commitment to human rights and democratic values.

The Chinese government’s abysmal human rights record is well-documented. From the brutal suppression of dissent in Hong Kong to the ongoing persecution of Uyghurs in Xinjiang, the regime in Beijing operates with a callous disregard for fundamental freedoms. To normalize relations without demanding concrete improvements in these areas sends a dangerous message – that Canada is willing to compromise its principles for economic gain.

Some will argue that engagement, not isolation, is the best way to influence China’s behaviour. That by fostering dialogue and cooperation, we can subtly nudge them towards reform. Perhaps. But history suggests that authoritarian regimes rarely respond to gentle persuasion. Meaningful change requires consistent, unwavering pressure.

This is not to say that dialogue is inherently wrong. But it must be accompanied by clear red lines and a willingness to act decisively when those lines are crossed. We must use our economic leverage to demand accountability for human rights abuses, to advocate for the release of political prisoners, and to support civil society organizations working to promote democracy and the rule of law.

The rise of authoritarianism around the world is a chilling trend. And the appeasement of such regimes, whether through deliberate action or subtle inaction, only emboldens them. To stand idly by while human rights are trampled upon is to betray the very values that define us as Canadians. It also creates space for a certain type of political thinking, right here at home, that seeks to erode our own democratic institutions. We must always be vigilant in defending Canadian sovereignty.

Mark Carney is a smart man, and he undoubtedly understands these complexities. But we, as Canadians, must hold him and our government accountable for ensuring that our economic interests do not come at the expense of our moral compass. Pragmatism is important, but it can’t come at the cost of integrity. We must remember that true strength lies not in economic might alone, but in the unwavering defense of our values – values that should guide every interaction we have on the world stage. We need to see how to get the most out of this situation while still being true to ourselves.