The Canadian government is expanding ties with Beijing as reported by the Chinese government following a recent discussion on military matters with Canadian officials. The meeting, held in Canada on Sept. 4, marked a significant step after years of strained diplomatic relations, sparking concerns among Conservative leaders opposed to military collaboration with China.

China’s defense ministry disclosed that the two nations engaged in their fifth defense coordination dialogue last week, a statement later confirmed by Canada’s Defense Department. Both parties discussed various international and regional issues of mutual interest, expressing readiness to enhance practical exchanges and cooperation between their respective militaries to foster mutual understanding and trust.

Despite not engaging in military exercises or cooperation with the People’s Liberation Army since 2018 due to diplomatic tensions over the detention of two Canadians by Beijing, Ottawa recently resumed military discussions with China, according to the Chinese Embassy in Ottawa. While Canada’s Department of National Defence did not explicitly endorse this characterization, it acknowledged the meeting’s role in supporting ongoing military communications at the operational level.

Emphasizing the government’s commitment to safeguarding Canadians and Canada’s strategic interests, the Defense Department outlined its approach of establishing “guardrails” in relations with China. This framework delineates specific areas for potential cooperation with China while excluding defense collaboration.

However, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the government’s shift, citing Prime Minister Carney’s previous remarks identifying China as Canada’s primary global threat. Poilievre denounced the defense coordination talks with Beijing, questioning the lack of transparency and advocating against military cooperation with a regime that has engaged in hostile actions against Canada.

In early 2024, Canadian military officials expressed a desire for more transparent dialogue with Chinese counterparts, following a 2023 incident involving a high-altitude balloon that crossed American and Canadian airspace from China. The Canadian military official responsible for communication with countries like China in January 2024 highlighted efforts to move from confrontational exchanges to rebuilding relationships.

The Chinese ambassador at the time raised concerns about Canada’s naval maneuvers through the Taiwan Strait hindering efforts for improved relations, urging both countries to uphold mutual respect.