Strengthening Diplomatic Relations: Xi Jinping's Engagement with Canada, Thailand, and Japan at APEC
In a significant diplomatic move, Chinese President Xi Jinping met with the prime ministers of Canada, Thailand, and Japan during the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, as reported by Xinhua News Agency on October 31, 2025. This gathering represents a pivotal moment in forging and enhancing relationships with these nations, particularly in light of their recent governmental transitions.
Canada has embraced a new chapter with Prime Minister Mark Carney, who is eager to restore and reinforce ties with China after a period of strained relations. During his dialogue with President Xi, Carney referred to this meeting as a 'turning point' in Canada-China relations. Xi expressed China's commitment to collaborating with Canada to ensure a return to a path of healthy, stable, and sustainable development. The two leaders emphasized the need for both nations to cultivate more objective views of each other and work together for mutual benefit.
In addition to strengthening bilateral relations, the discussions between Xi and Carney included plans for enhanced cooperation in various sectors, including multilateral frameworks like the United Nations. Xi urged both nations to resolve economic issues of shared concern and continue growing their strategic partnership.
Thailand's diplomatic relations with China also took center stage during Xi's engagement with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. Their meeting focused on aligning developmental strategies, increasing cooperation in trade, and enhancing security measures to counter cyber fraud and other cross-border crimes. Xi highlighted the importance of constructing the China-Thailand railway, showcasing China's commitment to infrastructure development in the region.
The relevance of Japan was underscored through Xi's meeting with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. As a close neighbor, Japan's partnership with China is vital for regional stability. During their discussions, they reaffirmed their mutual interest in fostering a healthy and stable long-term relationship. Xi reiterated China's readiness to engage with Japan based on the existing four political documents that guide their bilateral relations, paving the way for a future of collaboration on strategic interests and economic growth.
Xi's meetings with these leaders reflect a broader strategy toward reviving and enhancing neighborhood diplomacy in the Asia-Pacific region, as articulated in his central conference on neighboring countries. Observers note that China's emphasis on bilateral ties, particularly after power transitions in these nations, is expected to ensure both continuity in policies and stability in relations.
In conclusion, Xi Jinping's engagements during the APEC forum signify not just a diplomatic endeavor but also a strategic alignment with neighboring countries—Canada, Thailand, and Japan—fostering a community of shared interests and collaborations in the Asia-Pacific. This aligns with China's broader goals to navigate emerging global challenges and assert its influence on the international stage, emphasizing the interconnections that determine regional political dynamics. The outcome of these discussions will likely influence future interactions and collaborations as China seeks to build and strengthen its alliances in the face of evolving geopolitical landscapes.