The federal Conservatives have accused the Liberals of capitulating to “Beijing’s intimidation” following the early departure of some parliamentarians from a trip to Taiwan. Two Liberal MPs stated they are cutting short their visit to Taiwan based on government advice. This parliamentary delegation to Taiwan, comprising MPs from various parties, coincides with the prime minister’s visit to China.
Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to begin a four-day trip to China this week, aimed at resetting relations with the foreign nation. This visit will mark the first Canadian prime ministerial visit since 2017 and will include a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Michael Chong, the Conservative foreign affairs critic, criticized the Liberals for giving in to Chinese pressure, stating, “Two Liberal MPs ending their Taiwan visit early due to government pressure is akin to yielding to Beijing’s authoritarianism.”
Liberal MPs Helena Jaczek and Marie-France Lalonde, along with three Conservative MPs – Melissa Lantsman, Adam Chambers, and Shelby Kramp-Neuman, were part of the delegation. The Taiwan government sponsored the trip, which included meetings with Taiwanese officials.
In their statement, the two Liberal MPs mentioned, “As advised by the government, we are concluding this part of the visit and returning home to avoid confusion with Canada’s foreign policy, especially given the recent confirmation of the prime minister’s engagement in Beijing.”
The decision comes amid heightened tensions between Beijing and Taiwan, with China claiming sovereignty over Taiwan. The Liberal MPs’ early departure was initially reported by the Globe and Mail. While the Conservative MPs intend to complete the planned trip, Chong clarified that they were not instructed to return.
Jaczek and Lalonde emphasized that Canada’s stance on Taiwan remains unchanged, following the “One China” policy, which recognizes Taiwan as part of China while maintaining unofficial relations. Canadian parliamentarians frequently visit Taiwan, often with the travel being sponsored by the foreign government.