Senator Gold: Thank you for your question. The government’s strategy with China is not one of appeasement. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister Joly, has given some indications of Canada’s approach to the Indo-Pacific region and the strategy that will go forward governing Canada’s relationships. Canada will always defend its national interests and pursue those relationships in the Indo-Pacific area that will further our interests, and that includes taking strong action against Chinese interference in our internal affairs, democratic and otherwise, and any other interference.

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for the question. No, that is not the case at all. As I said recently in response to another question, Minister Joly and the Government of Canada are in the process of preparing a new strategy for the Indo-Pacific region. It is no secret that relations between Canada and China have been difficult for some time now. Canada is working to maintain a good rapport with its allies in the region to counterbalance China’s claims and actions with respect to human rights and the other hostile acts perpetrated by that regime.

Senator Gold: Thank you for the question. As I said, the government is positioning itself in a world that is different from the one that existed in the time of Prime Minister Chrétien and the others you mentioned. China and its international aspirations are very different now, and the government understands that very well. I repeat that the Government of Canada is committed to defending our interests and the democratic interests of our allies around the world.

[English]