Title: Experts Warn of Hostile Chinese Intentions Toward Canada

China's diplomatic approach toward Canada has raised concerns among experts. Recently, Chinese Ambassador Wang Di has been promoting a message of cooperation, urging both nations to develop a "correct perception of each other." He has emphasized phrases like "mutual respect," "win-win cooperation," and "positive energy" in interviews, including a recent appearance on CTV’s Question Period. During this interview, he suggested that current trade disputes could be resolved if Canada were to lift its tariffs.

However, experts caution that despite the softened rhetoric from Chinese officials, the underlying intentions of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) remain hostile. They argue that the CCP aims to selectively enhance economic ties while creating political divisions within Canada and between Canada and its allies. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, who is visiting Beijing this week, may find comfort in the ambassador's friendly language, but analysts warn that it could be misleading.

A notable example of this diplomatic strategy occurred when Premier Li Qiang met with Prime Minister Carney in September. Li reiterated Wang's call for Canada to adopt a "correct perception of China" to strengthen bilateral relations. This phrase, according to experts, reflects long-standing political demands from the CCP, which include not questioning its authoritarian rule and respecting its claims over regions like Hong Kong, Tibet, Xinjiang, and Taiwan.

Critics argue that such language serves as a form of diplomatic gatekeeping rather than a genuine effort at reconciliation. They assert that the CCP's demands imply that Canada should cease its support for measures that challenge China's influence in East Asia and should stop framing the CCP as a national security threat.

Ambassador Wang has also expressed grievances about what he perceives as negative portrayals of China, particularly regarding its actions in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Taiwan. He has claimed that such criticisms harm the foundations of friendship between the two nations. Experts interpret this as an attempt to redefine the relationship, suggesting that criticism of China equates to betrayal.

The use of coded language by Chinese diplomats is a common tactic, according to analysts. Phrases like "pragmatic cooperation" and "seeking common ground while maintaining differences" are seen as calls for Canada to overlook significant differences in values and national security concerns in favor of business interests. This approach could lead to increased economic dependency on China.

When Ambassador Wang asserts that the two countries have "no fundamental conflicts of interest," experts argue that this ignores China's actions that have contributed to global tensions, including its support for Russia and adversarial behavior toward democracies.

As negotiations continue, analysts advise that when Chinese officials claim that both sides "need each other," it often indicates that the CCP is seeking something from Canada, such as market access for its overproduced goods. This rhetoric is not only directed at Canada but is also being communicated to other nations, including Australia, New Zealand, and Japan.

In a recent interview, Ambassador Wang used a Chinese proverb to suggest that Canada is to blame for the current tensions due to its tariffs. Experts argue that this narrative is an example of diplomatic gaslighting, where the blame is inverted to portray China as the aggrieved party. They emphasize that Canada’s tariffs are necessary to align with U.S. policies and to protect its own manufacturing sector.

As Minister Anand embarks on her first trip to China, experts warn that she may encounter further attempts to persuade Canada to drop tariffs in exchange for short-term benefits. They stress the importance of not succumbing to these pressures and instead maintaining a clear stance on core values and sovereignty.

In conclusion, experts recommend that Canadians remain vigilant and critical of the CCP's diplomatic overtures. They advise against being swayed by friendly rhetoric and encourage a focus on strengthening relationships with more reliable partners to safeguard Canada’s interests and autonomy.