In 2021, a national community was formed to foster the next generation of Canadian leaders who are globally-minded and China-competent.
It has been a period of tremendous and rapid growth—one defined by bold programming, strategic initiatives, and a steadfast commitment to advancing dialogue on the bilateral relationship between Canada and China during an era of complex geopolitical shifts.
It is with great pride and optimism that I reflect on the Canada China Forum’s remarkable journey as we mark our third year. It has been a period of tremendous and rapid growth—one defined by bold programming, strategic initiatives, and a steadfast commitment to advancing dialogue on the bilateral relationship between Canada and China during an era of complex geopolitical shifts.
The geopolitical landscape we face is undeniably complex, with dynamics between China, the United States, and the broader international community continuing to evolve. At home, domestic attitudes towards China have remained cautious, and at times polarized, reflecting concerns about economic competitiveness, human rights, and security. This has been further compounded by the position of the United States, which has fortified its characterization of China as a strategic competitor.
Following more than six years of frosty relations over the arbitrary imprisonment of two Canadian citizens, Canada and China pledged to advance relations in a “pragmatic” manner during a face-to-face meeting in Beijing between Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in July 2024. A pragmatic approach to China will require Canada to take a clear-eyed assessment and be informed, balanced, and constructive in our engagement to address challenges while identifying opportunities for collaboration. Over the past year, there is increasing awareness that the turbulence in Beijing—economic, political, and technological—will inevitably have ramifications for Canadians, and the world. Likewise, the political and economic shifts in Washington, particularly with the return of a Trump administration, demand equal attention and strategic foresight when advancing Canada’s national interest on the global stage.
The Canada China Forum is uniquely positioned to support the next generation of Canadian leaders—leaders who will navigate these complexities with confidence, nuance, and a deep understanding of global realities. We are committed to our mandate: to convene a new generation of Canadian leaders who are globally-minded and China-competent, and who may contribute to Canada’s future engagement with China in service of the national interest.
Over the past year, we have witnessed a notable evolution in the Forum’s scope and impact. Virtually, we expanded our programming to launch the inaugural Masterclass Series, a flagship initiative that is designed to offer emerging young leaders a deep and multifaceted strategic understanding of China’s culture, history, economy, and society, and an overview of the complexities shaping Canada – China relations. In our inaugural year, we hosted nine sessions with nine experts over a four-month period, engaging more than two hundred unique participants. Across all our programming, we featured more than 30 speakers, showcasing diverse perspectives and expertise on China’s culture, history, economy, and society, as well as Canada–China relations.
In addition, we were honoured to host Ambassador Jennifer May as part of the Leadership Lecture Series, where she delivered an insightful address on Canada and China: An Evolving Relationship in the Indo-Pacific. Her perspective highlighted the complexities of our bilateral relationship in a rapidly changing regional landscape and underscored the need for nuanced, strategic engagement as outlined in our Indo-Pacific Strategy.
From our roots in virtual convenings during the pandemic, we successfully expanded to in-person programming—a critical and necessary step that has reinvigorated our connections, partnerships, and ability to engage in nuanced and complex discussions face-to-face.
The expansion of chapters, including our newly launched Toronto and Ottawa Chapter, and the ongoing development of others such as Montreal and Vancouver, underscore the Forum’s growing presence and momentum nationwide. Each Chapter is led by Chapter Lead(s) who have initiated a diverse range of programming tailored to their respective communities. These events include roundtables with subject-matter experts, public lectures featuring prominent voices in Canada–China relations, networking sessions to connect young professionals, and cultural exchanges that foster mutual understanding.
As we look to the future, our focus remains on strengthening these Chapters by building new partnerships with academic institutions, think tanks, and community organizations. These collaborations will enable us to host larger, more impactful events and expand our reach to engage a broader audience across Canada.
Membership has also surged with more than 112 members, reflecting the confidence that Canadians place in our mission and the role we play in fostering informed leadership for the future. To further support this growth, we are transitioning to a rolling membership model, making it easier for individuals to join and stay engaged year-round.
As I reflect on the challenges and successes of building and managing an organization, I am deeply grateful for the dedication and passion of our Leadership Team. The Canada China Forum remains a volunteer-based organization, and it is the unwavering commitment of our leadership team, advisory board members, members and partners that makes our continued growth and impact possible.
Through expanded programming, partnerships, and membership, we have become a key fixture in the Canada-China ecosystem. Many now recognize the Forum’s essential role in preparing Canadians who are globally-minded and China-competent to contribute meaningfully to Canada’s future engagement with China—engagement that serves our national interest while embracing global realities.
Thank you to our members, foundational partners, advisory board members, and supporters for your trust and commitment. Together, we are building a stronger, more resilient, and globally-minded Canada — ready and poised to meet the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.
Darren Touch
Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Canada China Forum