Michael Kovrig asks Canadian leaders to be mindful during trade mission

Michael Kovrig, who was detained in China for 1,000 days, told CBC he hopes Canadian officials remain mindful of security and influence risks as Prime Minister Mark Carney visits Beijing and pursues cooperation on energy.

Prime Minister Mark Carney is visiting China this week in a trip some describe as a "reset" in Canada–China relations. Michael Kovrig, a former diplomat who was detained by the Chinese government for 1,000 days beginning in 2018, spoke with CBC about the visit. Kovrig said the mission represents a return to normal diplomacy, but not a return to how relations were in the past. On day one of the visit, officials agreed to cooperate more on clean and conventional energy while a tariff dispute remains. Key points: - Michael Kovrig was detained by the Chinese government for 1,000 days starting in 2018 and later resumed public speaking and advisory roles. - Prime Minister Mark Carney is in Beijing; day one included agreement on energy cooperation and an ongoing tariff dispute is still in place. - Kovrig asks Canadian leaders to be mindful of elements of China's security apparatus and political hardliners when pursuing deals. - He said increases in trade should be accompanied by stronger protections against espionage, intellectual property theft and political influence. Summary: Kovrig urged a measured approach that balances engagement with awareness of security and influence risks, noting that small concessions can have wider effects. The visit has produced some cooperation on energy, and the overall outcome of talks is Undetermined at this time.