TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Canada's representative to Taipei said Wednesday that Taiwan would remain a strong partner in its Indo-Pacific strategy despite a change in leadership.
Jim Nickel, executive director of the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei, was asked by reporters whether a new government would impact Taiwan-Canada relations, per CNA. He responded, "My expectation is, Canada will, of course, continue with its Indo-Pacific strategy, and Taiwan's place in that Indo-Pacific strategy will remain important.”
Canada’s general elections are expected to take place in October. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he plans to step down after nine years in power. The Conservative Party currently holds a significant lead over his Liberal Party, according to opinion polls.
Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy has engaged with regional democratic partners, including Taiwan. It has opposed unilateral changes to the Taiwan Strait status quo.
In addition, Nickel said Canada is pleased that Taiwan remains interested in becoming a CPTPP member. He said there were positive conversations about all applicants when Canada was chair last year.