Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney departed on November 11 for a nine-day international tour spanning Ireland, the Philippines, Cambodia and China, as Ottawa seeks to diversify its trade relationships, strengthen diplomatic partnerships and expand Canada’s economic presence in Europe and Asia. The visit, scheduled to conclude on November 19, will focus on trade negotiations, investment opportunities and international cooperation.
Carney’s first stop is Ireland, where he is expected to hold bilateral discussions aimed at strengthening Canada’s relationship with European partners. The meetings will focus on expanding diplomatic engagement and reinforcing economic ties as Canada pursues closer cooperation with international allies.
The prime minister will then travel to Manila, Philippines, to participate in the 49th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit. Trade negotiations will be a central priority, with Canada seeking to advance free trade agreements with both ASEAN and the Philippines. Carney is also expected to meet Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to discuss bilateral economic cooperation and opportunities for expanding commercial ties.
In Cambodia, Carney will attend the Francophonie Summit, bringing together leaders from French-speaking countries to discuss international cooperation, economic development and shared priorities. The gathering will also provide an opportunity for Canada to strengthen its engagement with the Francophone community ahead of its scheduled hosting of the summit in 2028.
The final leg of the tour will take Carney to China, where discussions are expected to focus on trade, technology, investment and security. Visits to major commercial and technology centres will form part of Ottawa’s efforts to engage with one of the world’s largest economies while navigating complex geopolitical and economic challenges.
The four-country tour reflects the Carney government’s broader strategy of reducing Canada’s dependence on traditional trading relationships, opening new markets for Canadian businesses and strengthening its position in an increasingly competitive global economy.
