Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to meet President Xi Jinping at the Apec summit in November, where he will discuss concerns over foreign interference in Canada’s democratic processes. The meeting comes amid a 2025 public inquiry that identified China as the most active perpetrator of foreign interference targeting Canada’s democratic institutions. Carney confirmed during a press briefing that he will raise the issue of non-interference in Canadian affairs during the talks.
The summit, scheduled for November 18-19, will bring together leaders from across the Asia-Pacific region. Carney’s agenda includes discussions on trade, security, and diplomatic relations. His visit to China follows a series of international summits in Ireland, the Philippines, Cambodia, and other locations, where he has focused on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing global challenges.
Carney’s recent diplomatic efforts have also included participation in the European Political Community and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. These meetings aim to reinforce Canada’s role in global governance and promote cooperation on issues such as climate change and economic stability. The Apec summit represents a key opportunity for Canada to engage directly with China on matters of mutual interest, including cybersecurity and trade policies.
The 2025 public inquiry into election meddling highlighted concerns about state-sponsored influence campaigns targeting Canadian elections. Carney’s meeting with Xi is expected to focus on transparency and the protection of democratic institutions. While no specific outcomes have been announced, the discussion is seen as a step toward addressing the growing concerns over foreign interference in democratic processes.
