Canada's PM Mark Carney slams China, calls it 'largest geopolitical threat' ahead of election

Carney calls China Canada’s top threat as election nears

In a televised debate PM of Canada Mark Carney has called China the country’s top national security threat, pointing to concerns about foreign interference, cyber activities, and China's growing ambitions in the Arctic, as reported by the Express Tribune.

Carney gave this bold statement on Canada-China relations as the federal election campaign for elections nears end.

"China represents the largest geopolitical threat we face," said Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, emphasizing that his government is taking steps to address the issue.

During his campaign in Niagara Falls, Carney further elaborated on his statement, warning that Chinese interference directly threatens Canada’s democratic institutions.

Prime Minister Carney’s comments appear more focused on election dynamics than a long-term strategy. The expert urged Canada to maintain a "rational and pragmatic" relationship with China, especially in light of global uncertainties, as reported by Global Times.

The expert also emphasized that protecting Canadian sovereignty, particularly in the Arctic, would remain a key focus of Carney's national security policy if re-elected, according to the Express Tribune.

Meanwhile, the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa has not yet responded to Carney’s remarks. A foreign affairs expert in Beijing speculated that Carney’s rhetoric may be politically motivated.

As the April 28 election approaches, Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal Party continues to lead in most national polls, with foreign policy and economic concerns dominating the final phase of the campaign.

In addition to rising tensions with China, Canada is facing a trade dispute with the US over tariffs on Canadian autos, aluminum, and steel, further straining relations. With national security and foreign policy becoming central issues, Carney is taking a firm stance on both.

Mark Carney became the 24th prime minister of Canada on March 14 and is serving as Liberal Party of Canada since 2025. In September 2024, Mark Carney was appointed by Justin Trudeau to lead the Liberal Party of Canada's Task Force on Economic Growth. By early 2025, he announced his bid for party leadership and secured a decisive victory in March.

He previously served as the eighth Governor of the Bank of Canada from 2008 to 2013 and as the 120th Governor of the Bank of England from 2013 to 2020.