Navigating the Future of Canada–China Relations: CCBC Board Member Constantine Karayannopoulos at TVO Discussion
Navigating the Future of Canada–China Relations: CCBC Board Member Constantine Karayannopoulos at TVO Discussion
At a TVO event held in Toronto’s historic St. Lawrence Hall in early December, CCBC board member, business leader, and critical minerals expert Constantine Karayannopoulos joined a panel discussion on Canada–China relations. Hosted by Steve Paikin, the panel also featured the Honourable Mary Ng (former Minister of Export Promotion and International Trade), Vina Nadjibulla (Vice President, Research & Strategy, Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada), and Professor Lynette Ong (University of Toronto).
Mr. Karayannopoulos’s contributions highlighted several key messages:
- Diversification: Canada must diversify and expand trade beyond its dominant U.S. market and pursue partnerships across Asia (including China), Europe, and other global markets.
- Pragmatism over ideology: Engagement with China should be grounded in Canada’s national interests and approached pragmatically rather than ideologically.
- Learning from others: Australia was mentioned as a useful case study in balancing trade and security with China. Despite geopolitical tensions, and close security alliance with the United States, Australia has maintained strong economic relations with China while remaining vigilant in protecting sensitive sectors, illustrating the value of a pragmatic, interest-based approach.
- Leverage proven models: Mr. Karayannopoulos reflected on the success of Team Canada trade missions in the 1990s. Re-establishing Team Canada-style missions could help Canadian businesses open new markets, manage risk, and build durable commercial partnerships internationally.