Liberal MPs leave Taiwan trip early as Carney prepares to visit China

Two Ontario Liberal MPs said they are returning early from a government‑sponsored trip to Taiwan on advice intended to 'avoid confusion' about Canada's China policy, while Conservative MPs on the same delegation plan to finish their itinerary; Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to travel to China for talks on trade and security.

Two Ontario Liberal MPs announced they will return early from a government‑sponsored visit to Taiwan. They said the decision follows advice from the government and was made to "avoid confusion" about Canada's China policy. Conservative members of the delegation remain in Taiwan and a party spokesperson said they intend to complete the planned itinerary. Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to depart for China for talks on trade and security. Key facts: - The MPs who announced early returns are Helena Jaczek and Marie‑France Lalonde. - Their statement said the return is based on "advice from the government" and does not change Canada's stated position on Taiwan. - Conservative MPs on the same trip said they will finish the planned itinerary in Taiwan. - Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to travel to China for talks on trade and security issues. - On Jan. 1, Canada publicly condemned Chinese military drills around the Taiwan Strait and said it is in the interest of all parties to maintain the waterway's peaceful and accessible nature. Summary: Officials framed the early departures as a move to avoid confusion about Canada's approach to China and Taiwan. Conservative MPs will continue their visit while Prime Minister Carney proceeds to China for scheduled talks. Further implications for policy or diplomacy are undetermined at this time.