The federal Conservative party has criticized the Liberal government for what they view as a response to pressure from China, leading to the early return of some members of Parliament from a trip to Taiwan. Two Liberal MPs mentioned they are departing Taiwan based on guidance from the government. This visit to Taiwan by a parliamentary delegation, comprising members from various political parties, coincides with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s upcoming trip to China.
Prime Minister Carney’s four-day visit to China aims to improve relations with the foreign nation and marks the first visit by a Canadian prime minister since 2017. The agenda includes a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Conservative foreign affairs critic Michael Chong accused the Liberals of yielding to Chinese influence.
Chong stated, “The premature departure of two Liberal MPs from Taiwan due to government pressure is a submission to Beijing’s autocratic rule, undermining our democratic principles and ties with Taiwan.” Liberals Helena Jaczek and Marie-France Lalonde were part of the delegation, alongside Conservative MPs Melissa Lantsman, Adam Chambers, and Shelby Kramp-Neuman.
The Taiwan trip was organized by the Taiwanese government and involved meetings with Taiwanese officials. The Liberal MPs emphasized that they are returning home based on government advice to prevent any ambiguity regarding Canada’s foreign policy, especially with the prime minister’s concurrent visit to Beijing, which was only confirmed recently.
The decision to cut short the Taiwan visit occurs amid escalating tensions between China and Taiwan. China asserts sovereignty over Taiwan, a self-governing democracy, and has not ruled out military action. The news about the early departure of the Liberal MPs initially surfaced in the Globe and Mail. The Conservative MPs intend to complete the planned itinerary, as they were not instructed to return.
Jaczek and Lalonde clarified that Canada’s stance on Taiwan remains consistent, adhering to the “One China” policy, recognizing Taiwan as part of China while maintaining unofficial relations with Taiwan. Canadian lawmakers frequently visit Taiwan, with many trips sponsored by the Taiwanese government.