The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge Carney to China -- Do The Benefits There Outweigh The Problems Here?
Jan 13, 2026
Rob Russo, a Correspondent for The Economist, and Althia Raj, a Political reporter for the Toronto Star, dive into Prime Minister Mark Carney's pivotal trip to China. They explore whether this visit signifies a much-needed reset in Canada-China relations. The duo discusses potential trade-offs involving canola and electric vehicles, as well as how recent U.S. policy shifts are influencing Canadian negotiations. Their insights reveal the complex dynamics at play between economic interests and diplomatic values.
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Rare Access On The PM's Plane
- Rob Russo describes rare access when travelling on the prime minister's plane, visiting places the public never sees.
- He highlights meetings with ministers and informal interactions that reporters leverage for stories.
Recorded Casual Chats With Limits
- Althia Raj recalls off-the-record conversations on government planes that were nevertheless recorded by the Privy Council Office.
- She explains the discomfort reporters feel when casual remarks are treated as official but off-limits for reporting.
Premier's Presence Signals A Reset
- Rob Russo says Scott Moe joining Carney's trip signals prearranged deals, likely on canola tariffs.
- He argues the visit signals a reset and opens the gates to renewed China-Canada business ties.
