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Carney's Beijing Visit: Trade Talks Tied to Lai's Freedom

1/18/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit Beijing, the first Canadian prime ministerial trip in more than eight years, to reset Canada-China relations.
The visit coincides with the conclusion of Jimmy Lai's mitigation hearing.
Lai is a Canadian citizen and pro-democracy publisher facing severe charges for advocating democracy.
Carney should condition any new trade agreements on Lai's release to align engagement with Canada’s values.

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Story summary

Prime Minister Mark Carney will visit Beijing, the first Canadian prime ministerial trip in more than eight years, to reset Canada-China relations.
The visit coincides with the conclusion of Jimmy Lai's mitigation hearing.
Lai is a Canadian citizen and pro-democracy publisher facing severe charges for advocating democracy.
Carney should condition any new trade agreements on Lai's release to align engagement with Canada’s values.