MASTERCLASS SERIES I VIRTUAL PROGRAMMING I NOVEMBER 26th 2024 I 8:00-9:00 p.m. EST 5:00-6:00 p.m. PDT
Canada-China relations have become increasingly complex in recent years, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions between China and Western democracies. The arrest of Huawei’s CFO Meng Wanzhou and the subsequent arbitrary detainment of the two Michaels in China strained diplomatic ties. Economic relations, once focused on mutual benefit, are now overshadowed by concerns over human rights, national security, and Chinese influence in Canadian politics. Canada faces the challenge of balancing economic opportunities with China while aligning with its Western allies and partners, particularly the United States. Understanding these dynamics is key to navigating the future of Canada-China relations amid growing scrutiny and global shifts.
MEMBERS OF THE CANADA CHINA FORUM REGISTER HERE
Speaker: L. Phillippe Rheault, Director, The China Institute, University of Alberta
About the Speaker
L. Philippe Rheault takes on the leadership of The China Institute following a 25 year career in the Canadian diplomatic service, where he mainly focussed on China and East Asia. He has been posted to the region six times: to Beijing, Taipei, Chongqing (twice), Mongolia, and Guangzhou. Notably, he has headed two of Canada’s four missions in Mainland China, as Canada’s first Consul General to the southwestern metropolis of Chongqing (2012-2017) and most recently as the Consul General of Canada for South China, based in Guangzhou (Canton) (2019 to 2023). Over the course of the last two and a half decades, he has had the opportunity to witness first-hand China’s extraordinary rise, as well as most of the key milestones marking the evolution of Canada-China relations.
Philippe’s extensive network spans China, Canada, and beyond, and he has over the years provided advice and support to a wide cross-section of top leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society. He looks forward to deploying his experience, networks, and leadership skills in the service of the China Institute, with a view to continuing to enhance its profile, relevancy, and impact. He also looks forward to playing a role in deepening understanding of China at the University of Alberta itself and also within the broader Albertan and Canadian community. Philippe holds degrees in Philosophy, Political Science, and Law, all from McGill University. He has served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at China Southwest University, is a member of the Québec bar, and is professionally fluent in Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, English, and French.