As China intensifies its interference in Canadian elections, the United States faces a critical moment to support its closest ally’s democracy. With a new federal election approaching in Canada on April 28, 2023, concerns over external threats have been heightened, particularly from Beijing.
Recent inquiries reveal that the Chinese state has actively undermined Canadian democratic institutions during recent elections. The final report from a public inquiry into foreign interference emphasized that the People’s Republic of China (PRC) is the foremost perpetrator of such meddling in Canada.
The report characterized Canada as a high-priority target for the PRC, influenced by its alliances with NATO and the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network. As the United States grapples with its own trade conflict with Canada, the focus should shift to preserving Canadian sovereignty against foreign encroachment rather than questioning it.
In the face of significant economic ties to both the United States and China, Canada finds itself strategically vulnerable. Trade statistics reveal that two-thirds of Canada’s trade is with the US, while China stands as its second largest trading partner. The disparity in economic size underscores the challenges Canada faces; China’s economy is roughly eight times that of Canada’s.
Given this imbalance, a decision by China to restrict exports to Canada would have far less impact on its economy than a Canadian response would on China. Tensions have already been evident, as seen in China’s recent imposition of tariffs against Canadian goods following protective measures on electric vehicles taken by Ottawa.
As the inquiry highlighted, while public measures such as imposing sanctions may help counter foreign interference, they come with significant risks for Canada. The resolve of the Canadian government to maintain economic stability could deter it from pursuing aggressive sanctions that could provoke Beijing’s wrath.
Amid this geopolitical tension, the United States is uniquely positioned to aid Canada. Economic support and diplomatic backing could mitigate any fallout Canada might face from potential Chinese retaliatory actions, reinforcing the importance of a strong US-Canada alliance.
Even without direct sanctions, the US could utilize its technological and informational advantages to bolster Canada’s defenses against interference. Enhancing communication and coordination among the Five Eyes nations in the face of Chinese political espionage could strengthen the collective security of these democracies.
The ideological rivalry between the US and China plays a significant role in this context, as the latter seeks to challenge the liberal democratic order globally. Failure to protect Canadian democracy could inadvertently serve China’s interests, providing it with an opportunity to weaken the US-led international system.
In light of these dynamics, the US must recognize that undermining Canadian sovereignty would not only damage bilateral relations but also weaken the broader fight for democratic integrity. As Beijing preemptively engages in foreign policy via domestic channels, a passive defense could undermine Canada’s ability to protect its citizens and institutions.
A strategy focusing purely on defensive measures could cultivate a culture of mistrust within Canada, diminishing the very democratic principles that are being defended. This situation could be exploited by authoritarian regimes to discredit liberal democracy as merely a facade of consent.
Strengthening ties with Canada in these challenging times is crucial for American national security interests. The belief that annexing Canada could be the solution is misguided; instead, empowering Canada to resist foreign interference and defend its democracy should take precedence.
In conclusion, the US must pivot from engaging in trade tensions with Canada and instead focus on collaborative strategies to combat foreign threats. Supporting Canada as it navigates the challenges posed by China is vital for both nations and aligns with the broader goals of preserving democratic values in the face of authoritarian challenges.
image source from：nationalinterest
