Taiwan and Canada have reportedly held "exploratory discussions" about ways to boost trade ties, in Taipei’s latest move to reduce its economic reliance on China.
Federal Trade Minister Mary Ng met with Taiwanese minister without portfolio John Deng about a deal to promote investment, according to an emailed statement from the Canadian government.
Ng "highlighted Taiwan is a key trade and investment partner as Canada broadens its trade links and deepens its economic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region," according to the statement dated Monday, which added that Taiwan is Canada’s sixth-largest trading partner in Asia.
The two officials agreed in their video meeting to continue strengthening supply chain resilience and explore more business opportunities, according to a statement from Taiwan.
Beijing criticized Ottawa over the talks, with Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin saying at a regular press briefing in Beijing that "the Canadian side should respect the one-China principle and handle relevant issues prudently."
