Is Chinese Army in Canada? The concept of a Chinese army in Canada has become a topic of discussion in recent years. As one of the world’s largest powers, China is a growing presence in the international sphere and the presence of its army in Canada has definitely been observed. Despite this, there is little evidence to suggest that Chinese troops are actually in Canada.
In terms of the legality of Chinese troops entering Canada, there are strict border regulations in place that would need to be met. Currently, there is no Chinese military base located on Canadian soil. China does, however, have an Embassy in Ottawa, with a number of military attaches on staff.
On the surface of it, it could appear that Chinese troops are entering Canada when, in reality, it is likely Chinese representatives who are simply here for diplomatic reasons. In this broad context, it is important to remember that global trade and investment agreements between Canada and China are commonplace. With this in mind, it stands to reason that Chinese citizens entering Canada as representatives of the Chinese government should not be viewed with suspicion.
It is important to note that any foreign army is prohibited from entering Canada in accordance to The National Defence Act. In addition, The Secret Agents Registration Regulations explicitly bans any foreign army from entering Canadian territory. For this reason, it is highly unlikely that the Chinese army will be entering Canadian soil.
In some Canadian cities, however, there have been reports of Chinese military personnel visiting Canadian parks and habitats – without, it has been claimed, the correct paperwork or authorization. This is likely due to cultural misunderstandings, and a lack of information about the regulations in place, rather than evidence of a Chinese invasion. That being said, it is still advisable for Canadians to stay aware of any military personnel visiting their area and to double check they are authorized.
Rumours of Chinese army operating in Canada can, therefore, be easily dismissed as mere speculation. Though it is true that there have been reports of military personnel visiting certain Canadian hotspots, the regulations in place suggest that an invasion of Chinese troops is highly unlikely.
Chinese Economy in Canada
The significant Chinese presence in Canada can be, to some extent, attributed to the growing economy of China and its influence in global markets. Many global corporations are now relying heavily on wholesale Chinese products, and Canada is no exception. The total value of Canada-China merchandise trade was valued at 62.3 billion in 2018, suggesting a considerable Chinese economy within Canada.
In addition, the Chinese-based smartphone manufacturer Huawei is regularly in the news with its significant market share within Canada. This is just the tip of the iceberg – Chinese nationals own thousands of Canadian businesses and the Canadian economy is reliant on those investments.
With this in mind, it is easy to see why discussions regarding the potential presence of the Chinese army in Canada arise – the economy is strongly linked to China. Despite this, the regulations in place in Canada, and elsewhere, make it difficult for the Chinese army to legally obtain Canadian visas.
Any attempt to smuggle Chinese troops across the border would almost certainly be detected, and would be in direct violation of the country’s policies. This is yet another reason why the Chinese army is unlikely to be present in Canada.
China’s Presence In The International Sphere
Of course, the presence of Chinese military personnel in any country is sure to draw attention, especially at a time when China is gaining global recognition. Though Chinese troops are unlikely to be stationed in Canada, the same cannot be said for Chinese bases in other locations. It is well known that China has opened military bases in Djibouti and Pakistan, as well as using Venezuelan territory to expand its presence across South America.
The expansion of China in the international political landscape has opened up possibilities that it would have been impossible to imagine only a few years ago. As a major world superpower, it is now almost certain that China will continue to expand its international presence in the years to come.
In this context, it is natural that discussions have arisen regarding the potential presence of Chinese troops in Canada. But these talks are largely unfounded and any evidence of Chinese troops in Canada is purely speculative. The regulations in place in Canada make it virtually impossible for the Chinese army to become stationed in the country.
Challenges To Canada
Although it is clear that there is no Chinese army in Canada, it cannot be said that the presence of China in the country does not present a challenge to Canadians. It is likely that foreign interests with strong links to China will increase in the years to come and this could potentially lead to economic and political instability in Canada.
Given the heated debates surrounding this issue, it is now more important than ever for Canada to develop its foreign policy with regards to China. A cohesive strategy that takes into account both the economic benefits and the potential risks of hosting Chinese businesses and investments is essential in today’s globalised world.
It is also essential that Canadians recognise the potential problems that come with foreign investments. If a government or foreign corporation is found to be acting in bad faith, it is the certainty that it will be held accountable.
At the same time, Canada must ensure that it continues to encourage international business and investment, as this is essential to the success of the nation’s economy.The government, too, needs to widen its ideological perspective so as to ensure that foreign investments are handled fairly and equitably.
International Relations with China
As the debate about the Chinese presence in Canada continues to simmer, it is important to remember the various factors at play in the issue. One of the most important factors is the relationship between Canada and China from a geopolitical perspective. There is no doubt that the two countries have benefited from their diplomatic ties over the years, as was seen when China became Canada’s third largest trading partner in 2018.
It is likely that the two countries will continue to benefit from each other in the years to come – economically, socially, and politically. The recent signing of a free trade agreement between China and Canada has arguably been beneficial to both parties and this could be expanded in the future.
Building closer ties between Canada and China is essential if both countries are to thrive in this rapidly globalising world. Establishing clearer, more specific international policies that carry through to various business and political agreements is the only way to ensure that these ties remain beneficial to both parties in the years to come.
Implications Of Chinese Presence in Canada
The presence of China in Canada is sure to have far-reaching implications for a number of sectors – both domestically and internationally. It is important to understand, first of all, that any investments made by China must comply with international regulations – particularly those established by the United Nations.
Over the next few years, it is likely that the Chinese presence in Canada will become more prominent. This could mean a number of things – the potential increase in investments, a surge in construction projects and trade agreements, or even a cultural revolution. Regardless of what happens, it is essential that Canadians remain aware of the implications of China’s presence and how these may affect their lives.
As discussions on this issue continue, it is important to be aware of the various factors at play. Having a clear understanding of the legal regulations in place, along with the international relationship between Canada and China, will be beneficial in terms of evaluating the potential implications of a stronger Chinese presence in Canada.
