In light of the profound shifts occurring in the global economic landscape,the prospects of energy cooperation between China and Canada have emerged as a topic of growing significance and interest.

In response to a question about China's interest in Canadian liquefied natural gas in an interview with Canadian mainstream TV network CTV News,Chinese Ambassador to Canada Wang Di said that there is great complementarity between China and Canada in terms of trade,and this is also the same with the energy sector,according to a transcript published on the website of the Chinese Embassy in Canada on Sunday.

"I think if Canada's energy is market-competitive,China is,of course,willing to import Canada's energy…there is great potential for both of our countries to conduct cooperation in this area,"Wang noted.

His remarks come at a time when there is growing discussion of China's potential as an alternative market for Canadian energy exports,especially amid the shadow of potential US tariffs.The development highlights the opportunities that lie in fostering closer economic ties between the two countries.

However,the key message in his remarks was not merely about energy trade,it was a clear call for correct recognition of each other.In recent years,the China-Canada relationship suffered setbacks,many involving China's core interests.China has long adhered to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries,and it expects the same consideration from Canada.As Ambassador Wang pointed out,mutual respect is important.We should respect each other on issues concerning each other's core interests.It is hoped that Ottawa understands the real meaning of the ambassador's remarks.In energy trade,which requires long-term investment and stable expectations,mutual respect serves as the best hedge against risks.

Recent data paint a vivid picture of energy trade between the two countries.In March alone,China imported more than 7.3 million barrels of crude oil from Canada.Since the Trans Mountain Pipeline was opened,nearly half of the newly added capacity was exported to China,Wang said in the interview.

These figures are indicators of a shift in global energy dynamics,signaling newfound opportunities for Canadian energy exports.However,realizing the full potential of this complementary relationship hinges on Canada's ability to adopt a more pragmatic and open-minded approach toward China.

In the field of natural gas,there is particularly strong complementarity between China and Canada.Alberta's proven natural gas reserves have increased nearly sixfold to 130 trillion cubic feet since they were last assessed,according to a new study,Canadian media outlets reported in March.The new gas reserve estimate more than doubles Canada's overall total,pushing the country into the global top 10,the Alberta government said in a release.

Meanwhile,China,as the world's largest energy-consuming market,has a growing appetite for natural gas.In 2024,China's natural gas imports hit 131.69 million tons,up 9.9 percent year-on-year,statistics from Chinese customs showed.

The clean energy sector also offers immense possibilities for China-Canada cooperation.China has established itself as a global leader in clean energy innovation.Canada,too,possesses advantages in clean energy resources and technological research and development.If Canada can adopt a more open approach toward China,it stands to attract Chinese investment in its clean energy sector,thereby benefiting from access to advanced technologies while opening new markets for its own low-carbon exports.

While the potential for practical cooperation between China and Canada is undeniable,seizing these market opportunities requires political wisdom.Only when commercial rationality overcomes political biases can the complementary nature of China-Canada energy relations be translated into tangible mutual benefits.

Looking into the future of China-Canada energy cooperation,the ball is in the court of Canada.China has already demonstrated its stance and sincerity.Now,it is up to Canada to exhibit the necessary political wisdom and strategic vision.At this critical juncture of the global energy transition,whether Canada can break free from geopolitical constraints and adopt a pragmatic approach to its relations with China will determine whether it can seize the historic opportunities presented by the Chinese market.