Trudeau: Canada Must Keep Presence in Southeast Asia to Reap Benefits of Economic Boom

Canada needs to keep up its presence in Southeast Asia if it wants to benefit from the region’s economic boom, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Friday as he wrapped up his visit to Laos.

Trudeau participated in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Summit this week, marking the third time he’s attended the annual meeting.

The prime minister said pursuing bonds with ASEAN members is not about political ideology or leaving a government footprint, but rather it’s about acknowledging the economic opportunities in the region.

But to benefit from what Southeast Asia has to offer, Trudeau said Canadians need to make their presence felt in the region.

“That’s really a big piece of the challenge, making sure that we are showing up,” Trudeau said in a news conference on Friday.

“Showing up as leader, yes, but more importantly, showing up as businesses on trade missions, building those connections, making the investments in more maritime security presence and defence presence, making more investments in upgrading embassies and opening trade offices.”

Trudeau announced during the visit that Canada is upgrading its diplomatic missions in Vientiane, Laos, and Phnom Penh, Cambodia to full embassies.

He also announced a $128-million package of funding at the summit, with the majority of the money going toward environmental protection and combating climate change.

The visit to Laos comes as Canada works toward a free-trade deal with the 10-nation bloc and a separate deal with Indonesia, which both countries are aiming to sign by the end of the year.

ASEAN countries together represented Canada’s fourth-largest trading partner last year, and trade with the region has nearly doubled since 2015.

The visit also builds on the Liberal government’s Indo-Pacific strategy, which set out a roadmap to strengthen military and economic relationships in the region and counterbalance the influence of China.

Canada’s efforts are part of a larger Western push for stronger economic and political relationships with southeast Asian countries, largely to reduce reliance on Chinese goods.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, Trudeau’s statement emphasizes the importance of Canada maintaining its presence in Southeast Asia to reap the benefits of the region’s economic boom. The country’s efforts to strengthen relationships with ASEAN members and reduce reliance on Chinese goods are part of a larger Western push to shift economic and political power in the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the significance of Canada’s presence in Southeast Asia?
A: Canada’s presence in Southeast Asia is crucial for the country to benefit from the region’s economic boom and to reduce its reliance on Chinese goods.

Q: What are the goals of Canada’s efforts in the region?
A: The goals of Canada’s efforts in the region include strengthening military and economic relationships, and reducing the influence of China.

Q: What is the significance of the ASEAN summit?
A: The ASEAN summit is an important platform for Canada to engage with ASEAN member states and to strengthen relationships with the region.

Q: What is the significance of the Indo-Pacific strategy?
A: The Indo-Pacific strategy is a key component of Canada’s efforts to strengthen its relationships with the region and to counterbalance China’s growing influence.