Trudeau Hopes For Chinese Contacts

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31677, 13 May 1968, Page 13

Trudeau Hopes For Chinese Contacts

(N.Z.P.A-Reuter—Copyright) VANCOUVER, May 12. The Canadian Prime Minister (Mr Pierre Trudeau) says he favours any measures, including recognition on suitable terms, that would intensify contacts between Canada and China and contribute to international order and stability.

In a speech to the British Columbia Council of Forest Industries yesterday, however, Mr Trudeau did not specify what the “suitable terms” for recognition of China’s Communist government could be. “The present situation, in which a government which represents a quarter of the world's population is diplomatically isolated—even from countries with which it is actively trading—is obviously unsatisfactory,” Mr Trudeau said. “In a Canada which is benefiting fully from its situation

on the Pacific rim, British Columbia will be the funnel through which the lines of communication will pass.” Mr Trudeau said that more attention must be devoted to Canada’s neighbours across the Pacific. “Japan has already become our third-largest trading partner, and the flow of investment and the exchange of technical skill is growing every year,” he said, adding that Canada must take increasing advantage of her “ringside seat” on the Pacific to increase her trade and economic growth.