The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, paid an official visit today to Beijing, People's Republic of China, at the invitation of Wang Yi, China's Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Minister Joly's visit reaffirms the Minister's commitment to pragmatic engagement with China and the development of sound and stable bilateral relations that advance and protect Canadian interests, contribute to security and stability, and enhance deep and historic people-to-people ties.
During the visit, the two Ministers held an extended bilateral meeting during which the Ministers discussed the opportunities and challenges in the bilateral relationship as well as a wide range of global issues of common concern, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas conflict and tensions in the Korean peninsula. Both sides committed to greater coordination on shared issues in APEC and other appropriate multilateral fora.
Minister Joly stated that Canada would continue to defend our democracy and the values it has always stood for, including human rights, the rule of law, and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, as Canada does consistently in its international engagement. The Minister reaffirmed Canada's One-China Policy, which remains unchanged.
During their engagements, the two Ministers took note of recent positive developments in relations, including the resumption of consular consultations, and the recent exchanges at senior levels. The two sides discussed their market access concerns and indicated a willingness to explore opportunities to strengthen engagement in the areas of trade, environmental protection and climate response, and in combating the harm caused by illicit drugs such as fentanyl. Recalling the rich ties between the people of both countries, they agreed to advance concrete measures for promoting people-to-people ties, including for tourists and students.
Minister Joly reiterated the importance of diplomatic relations that fully respect the Vienna conventions on consular and diplomatic relations, which codify the rules for the exchange, treatment, and behaviour of representatives abroad, and form the bedrock for the conduct of mutually respectful relations.
The Ministers agreed on the importance of maintaining open lines of communication and committed to holding regular discussions at the ministerial level, including on peace and security, and trade.
