Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet emphasized the importance of not being “naive” during a meeting with the Chinese ambassador, highlighting a significant gap in perspectives between the two parties.
Discussing various topics such as trade, culture, human rights, self-determination, and the environment, Blanchet underscored the differences in viewpoints and the lack of alignment, particularly concerning the issue of self-determination rights for regions like Tibet, Taiwan, and the Uyghurs.
Despite the differences, Blanchet reaffirmed his party’s commitment to advocating for self-determination and human rights, maintaining a close connection with communities affected by these issues.
The Bloc, a separatist party with ties to other independence-seeking movements worldwide, including Spain’s Catalonia region, expressed a firm stance on the issue, ruling out any possibility of compromise with China.
During the meeting with Ambassador Wang Di, Blanchet described the interaction as “very interesting” and “cordial,” despite the clear divergence in opinions. The discussion also touched on the issue of foreign interference, with Wang denying any Chinese involvement and a public inquiry ongoing to investigate the matter.
Following a period of strained relations between Ottawa and Beijing, marked by high-profile incidents like the arrest of a Huawei executive and the detention of Canadian citizens, recent diplomatic efforts have aimed at rebuilding ties. Minister Mélanie Joly’s visit to China in July and Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault’s prior engagement reflect a shift towards normalization in relations.
Blanchet noted a potential shift in tone from the Chinese side, signaling a desire to move past previous tensions and foster a new era of engagement post-controversies.
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