International Desk: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney arrived at Beijing Capital International Airport on January 14 (Wednesday), beginning a four-day official visit to China. This marks the first visit to China by a Canadian prime minister in eight years, carrying significant diplomatic and symbolic importance for bilateral relations.

During the visit, Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Carney to provide new strategic guidance aimed at further strengthening and advancing China–Canada relations. In addition, Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Zhao Leji, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, will hold in-depth discussions with the Canadian prime minister on bilateral ties and issues of shared concern.

Since last year, sustained joint efforts by both sides have contributed to a gradual improvement and stabilization of China–Canada relations. President Xi Jinping previously met Prime Minister Carney in Gyeongju, South Korea, an encounter that helped pave the way for renewed dialogue, exchanges, and cooperation across various sectors.

Prior to his departure for China on Tuesday, Prime Minister Carney stated on social media that China is Canada’s second-largest trading partner and the world’s second-largest economy. He emphasized that pragmatic and constructive relations between Canada and China would contribute to greater stability, security, and prosperity on both sides of the Pacific Ocean. Accompanying the prime minister on the visit are several senior ministers overseeing foreign affairs, industry, agriculture, natural resources, and international trade.

Earlier, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that the sound and stable development of China–Canada relations serves the common interests of both countries and their peoples, while also aligning with global peace, stability, development, and prosperity. China hopes that Prime Minister Carney’s visit will serve as an opportunity to strengthen dialogue and communication, enhance political mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and properly manage differences. Such efforts, the spokesperson said, will help consolidate the positive momentum of bilateral relations and deliver tangible benefits to the peoples of both nations.

Source: Xinya-Touhid-Fei, China Media Group.