- Trudeau meets with South American leaders, including Peru and Chile, at APEC summit in Lima.
- Rising protectionism and potential tariffs under a Trump presidency dominate discussions.
- Canada concludes a trade deal with Indonesia, opening markets in Southeast Asia.
At the APEC summit in Lima, Peru, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is focusing on strengthening Canada‘s trade relationships with South American nations.
In official meetings with Peruvian President Dina Boluarte and Chilean President Gabriel Boric, Trudeau is addressing concerns about trade barriers and economic stability.
Canada Seeks Stronger Trade Ties at APEC Amid Global Trade Turmoil
In addition to his formal meetings with South American leaders, Trudeau has engaged in informal talks with counterparts like Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, resulting in a major trade breakthrough.
The Canada-Indonesia trade agreement, expected to be finalized next year, promises to open new markets for Canadian businesses, particularly in sectors such as renewable energy and digital trade. This deal highlights Canada’s strategic focus on building strong economic ties in Southeast Asia amid a shifting global landscape.
China’s growing influence in South America is also a key point of focus at APEC, as Beijing continues to expand its Belt and Road Initiative in the region. With Chinese President Xi Jinping’s increased economic engagement, especially in infrastructure projects in Peru, Canada is looking to counterbalance China’s dominance in the region. Trudeau’s leadership aims to reinforce multilateralism and diversify Canada’s global trade partnerships, particularly as global tensions rise.
Trudeau’s efforts at APEC are not limited to trade agreements. He is also advocating for broader regional cooperation, particularly in areas like clean energy and technology. Trudeau’s upcoming trip to the G20 summit in Brazil will further highlight Canada’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russia’s invasion, despite the uncertainty around future U.S.
involvement under a potential Trump administration. Trudeau’s foreign policy strategy is increasingly focused on building resilient and sustainable partnerships to weather global challenges.
As the APEC summit wraps up, Trudeau’s diplomatic efforts underscore Canada’s commitment to preserving multilateral trade agreements and navigating a shifting geopolitical landscape.
“APEC is meeting in the context of rising protectionism, intense geopolitical competition, uncertain economic growth, and the Trump election.” — Vina Nadjibulla
