Leyton-Brown: What’s the ultimate objective of Harper’s softer stance on China?

By:
David Leyton-Brown
/
25 July, 2011
By: David Leyton-Brown
Professor of Political Science, York University

Since the 1960’s successive Canadian governments have tried to diversify Canada’s economic relations away from its excessive reliance on the United States – without success.  The rise of China as an economic power and trading partner offers the latest opportunity in this ongoing effort.  But closer trade and economic relations with China cannot result from market forces alone.  The Chinese government is not a neutral observer to its country’s economic relations, and responds to both political as well as economic interests.

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