The Herle Burly New World Order: Canada on the World Stage with David Mulroney & Jennifer Welsh
Jan 17, 2026
Jennifer Welsh, a global governance expert from McGill University, and David Mulroney, former Canadian ambassador to China, dive into the shifting international order. They discuss the rise of China and its influence, the impact of the Trump presidency on U.S. leadership, and Canada's complacency regarding geopolitical changes. The duo also debates Canada's economic vulnerabilities and emphasizes the importance of building diversified partnerships and enhancing security investments to navigate an increasingly complex global landscape.
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Build Deep Friendships, Not Just Transactions
- Do invest in long‑term friendships and multi‑dimensional ties beyond transactional deals.
- Jennifer Welsh stresses building partnerships across regions for true trade diversification.
When Values‑First Diplomacy Backfires
- Canada previously prioritized identity‑driven diplomacy like a 'feminist foreign policy' over hard strategic listening.
- David Mulroney warns this style reduced Canada's standing and its ability to protect core interests.
Taiwan MPs Pulled Before China Visit
- David Mulroney recounts how two Liberal MPs were pulled from a Taiwan visit just before the China trip.
- He argues that move signalled to China Canada would prioritise a deal over Taiwan ties.
