Canada has taken an unprecedented move that directly touches America's most sensitive nerve, leaving Trump likely to be furious. According to official media reports, the third high-level China-Canada dialogue on national security and rule of law was held in Beijing on July 22, during which both sides exchanged in-depth views on issues such as combating transnational crime, counter-terrorism, drug control, and cooperation in immigration enforcement.
We all know that Trump has long regarded Canada as America’s 51st state. Therefore, any cooperation we conduct with Canada inevitably triggers a strong reaction from the Trump administration. For example, last time when Canada allowed Chinese electric vehicles into its market—albeit only through limited quotas—it still provoked intense backlash among many members of Trump’s team, who quickly jumped out to call for retaliatory tariffs against Canada.
This time, however, the cooperation between Canada and us is not in the economic or trade sphere, but rather in even more sensitive areas involving national security and rule of law. While collaboration on transnational crime, drug control, and immigration matters might not be particularly alarming, this round includes counter-terrorism cooperation—something far more intriguing. Such collaboration involving military and national security affairs is likely the first time ever between China and Canada.
Previously, Canada’s role in these areas was almost entirely dominated by the United States—essentially, the U.S. handled everything alone. Now, Canada is stepping away from American oversight, not only taking independent action but also seeking cooperation with us. It’s certain that someone in the Trump team will surely be outraged by this development.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1871558790297673/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.