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CALGARY — China’s top diplomat in Calgary says Canada and China have an opportunity to strengthen economic ties by expanding cooperation in energy, agriculture, innovation and advanced manufacturing, arguing both countries stand to benefit from closer collaboration.
In a commentary examining what Beijing calls “China Opportunity 2.0,” Consul General Liying Zhao says China’s continued economic growth, expanding domestic market and focus on technological innovation present new opportunities for Canadian businesses.
The commentary comes as Western Canada prepares for harvest and amid continued demand in China for imported agricultural products. Zhao says China remains an important market for Canadian exports, including agricultural products, energy and mineral resources, while also identifying finance, education and health care as sectors with potential for deeper cooperation.
The consul general says the next phase of the bilateral relationship should extend beyond traditional trade to include greater collaboration in artificial intelligence, clean technology, life sciences, digital industries and advanced manufacturing.
According to Zhao, Canada brings strengths in research, innovation and emerging technologies, while China offers large-scale manufacturing capacity, diverse commercial applications and access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets. Increased cooperation among universities, research institutions and private industry, she writes, could accelerate research, commercialization and economic growth in both countries.
The commentary also argues China and Canada share common interests in addressing global challenges, including climate change, public health, energy security and supply chain stability.
Zhao says the two countries should strengthen cooperation through organizations including the United Nations, the G20 and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum while supporting an open, rules-based international trading system.
She concludes by calling the current period “a pivotal moment” for Canada and China to focus on shared interests and practical cooperation, saying a stronger bilateral relationship would benefit businesses and citizens in both countries while contributing to global economic growth and sustainable development.
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