China and Canada hold military talks amid renewed ties

China says it held a candid exchange with Canadian officials on military issues earlier this month, marking the two countries’ fifth defence coordination dialogue. Canadian officials confirmed the meeting, which took place in Canada on Sept. 4, but offered a more cautious description of the talks. According to China’s defence ministry, the discussion covered international and regional issues of shared interest and included a willingness to expand practical exchanges and improve mutual understanding. Canada’s Defence Department said the meeting supported ongoing workinglevel military communication and fit within Ottawa’s broader approach to China. The talks come after years of strained relations, including a halt to military cooperation since 2018. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre criticized the government’s approach, arguing that defence talks with Beijing should not resume while broader concerns remain unresolved.