Former Canadian military leader warns Ottawa against turning to China at the expense of Washington

Ottawa —
Former Canadian Chief of Defence Staff, retired General Wayne Eyre, warned the federal government against rushing towards China in an attempt to diversify trade relations, amid increasing tensions between Canada and the United States.

Eyre said that Canada may need to expand its economic options and reduce excessive dependence on the American market, but he emphasized at the same time that this should not be done at the expense of the strategic relationship with Washington.

He added that “geography matters,” referring to the fact that Canada’s connection with the United States is not limited to trade, but includes continental security, defense, supply chains, energy, and the shared border.

His statements come at a time when Mark Carney’s government is looking for alternative markets and partnerships to reduce the impact of American pressures and tariffs, but the warning reflects the concern of some former officials that opening up to China could lead to broader security and political risks.

Eyre believes that China cannot be dealt with as just an ordinary trading partner, due to complexities related to national security, technology, supply chains, and geopolitical influence.

This position reflects an increasing debate within Canada about how to balance the need to diversify trade and protect security interests, especially amid a troubled relationship with the administration of American President Donald Trump.

While Ottawa seeks to build a broader economic margin, the warning confirms that any major shift in trade policy must take into account Canada’s position within the North American defense and security system.