Beijing – China on Tuesday said it is open to improving strained relations with Canada following Prime Minister Mark Carney’s election victory, which saw the Liberal Party return to power in a dramatic political comeback.

“China is willing to develop China-Canada relations on the basis of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit,” said foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun at a regular press briefing.

While Beijing stopped short of issuing a direct congratulation to Carney, it reiterated its consistent stance on bilateral relations, stating, “China’s position on China-Canada relations is consistent and clear.”

Relations between the two countries have been fraught with tension in recent years, marked by a series of diplomatic flashpoints. The arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Vancouver in 2018 on a U.S. extradition request led to the retaliatory detention of two Canadian citizens, escalating the diplomatic standoff.

Further tensions arose from allegations of Chinese interference in Canada’s 2019 and 2021 elections — claims Beijing has repeatedly denied. In 2023, Canada expelled a Chinese diplomat accused of targeting a Canadian opposition MP critical of China’s Communist Party, deepening the rift.

Ottawa has also taken a strong stance against China’s policies in Hong Kong and the treatment of its Uyghur Muslim minority, drawing sharp rebukes from Beijing.

Most recently, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly revealed that China executed four Canadian citizens in recent weeks, despite diplomatic appeals for clemency. China defended the executions, stating they were carried out "in accordance with the law."

Despite the rocky history, Beijing’s latest remarks suggest a possible opening for renewed dialogue under Carney's leadership. Observers say it remains to be seen whether the two nations can move past years of diplomatic discord.