Prime Minister Mark Carney's official visit to China has ignited a political firestorm in Canada, following his remarks about preparing for a 'new world order' alongside Chinese leadership. The comments, made during a high-level meeting in Beijing on Thursday, January 15, 2026, mark a significant tonal shift from previous Canadian government positions that labeled China a major security threat.
A Surprising Shift in Diplomatic Tone
The visit, the first by a Canadian prime minister to China in nearly a decade, was intended to rebuild economic and diplomatic ties. In a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at Beijing's Great Hall of the People, Carney stated, 'The world has changed much since that last visit. I believe the progress that we have made, the partnership, sets us up well for the new world order.'
This language immediately drew scrutiny. Observers noted the stark contrast with the previous administration's more confrontational 'Elbows Up' strategy toward the United States under former President Donald Trump. Carney's conciliatory approach toward Beijing has led critics to question whether longstanding concerns over Chinese interference in Canadian democracy have been set aside.
Domestic Reaction and Skepticism
The reaction from within the Canadian delegation was visibly telling. Video from the meeting showed Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe, seated beside Carney, quickly tilt his head and look toward the Prime Minister with an expression of apparent surprise, suggesting the remarks were unexpected.
Back home, commentators and opposition figures expressed alarm. The phrase 'new world order' has become a lightning rod for criticism, with skeptics linking it to controversial concepts like:
- Expanded climate change and net-zero policies
- Increased digital surveillance or social credit systems
- The 'Great Reset' economic model discussed at forums like Davos
Carney, a former Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, has long been associated with global economic forums. Critics pointed to the cover of his 2021 book, Value(s), which depicts the globe surrounded by scaffolding, as symbolic of his reconstructionist worldview.
Security Concerns Linger Despite Thaw
The push for renewed partnership comes despite persistent and serious security concerns. Reports from journalists on the trip revealed that members of the Canadian press corps were using 'burner' phones in China to avoid potential surveillance or communication interception by Chinese authorities.
When questioned about this stark reality, Industry and Economic Development Minister Melanie Joly acknowledged the government was proceeding with 'eyes wide open.' She defended the engagement by citing existing deep economic ties, noting that Carney himself tweeted that over 400,000 Canadian jobs are linked to Chinese investment.
However, the Prime Minister's Office has not yet provided clarification on what the 'new world order' partnership specifically entails. No new deals on Canadian oil, natural gas, or other resources were announced during this initial meeting.
The visit underscores a dramatic pivot in Canadian foreign policy. Having once identified China as Canada's biggest security threat, the Carney government is now openly seeking a foundational role with Beijing in shaping the future international landscape—a move that continues to divide opinion and raise fundamental questions about Canada's strategic direction on the world stage.
