The Chinese government recently disclosed that it engaged in a frank discussion on military matters with Canadian officials earlier this month, as the Carney administration seeks to strengthen ties with Beijing. The meeting, held in Canada on September 4, marked the fifth defense coordination dialogue between the two countries, signaling a shift from previous diplomatic tensions. While China’s defense ministry confirmed the dialogue, Canada’s Defense Department echoed the sentiment days later.

Both parties exchanged views on international and regional issues of common interest, expressing a desire to enhance practical exchanges and cooperation between their militaries to foster mutual understanding and trust. Notably, Ottawa has refrained from military exercises or cooperation with the People’s Liberation Army since 2018, amidst strained relations following Beijing’s detainment of two Canadians.

According to the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa, the recent meeting signified the renewal of military talks after an eight-year hiatus, a statement that Canada’s Department of National Defense did not explicitly verify. Instead, the department emphasized the meeting’s role in supporting ongoing military communications at a functional level, underscoring Canada’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens and national interests.

The Defense Department highlighted the Carney government’s strategy of establishing “guardrails” in Canada’s relations with China, outlining specific areas where deeper cooperation may be sought and areas, including defense, where cooperation is off the table. However, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre expressed skepticism, citing concerns over engaging in defense coordination with a country that he views as a threat to Canada.

In early 2024, Canadian military officials expressed a desire for more open dialogue with their Chinese counterparts, following an incident in early 2023 involving a high-altitude balloon that flew from China across American and Canadian airspace. Efforts to improve relations were acknowledged by China’s ambassador at the time, albeit with a call for mutual respect amid lingering challenges.

Overall, the recent military dialogue reflects a nuanced approach by the Canadian government towards its relationship with China, balancing cooperation in certain areas while maintaining vigilance on defense matters.