Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently spoke about the importance of democratic values and environmental sustainability in the global race for green technology. During a visit with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, Trudeau argued that democracies like Canada can become “reliable suppliers” of sustainable goods while also upholding the rule of law. He suggested that global companies make their imports contingent on environmental responsibility and the prevention of slave labor, which would encourage the use of goods produced in countries like Canada. Trudeau also emphasized the importance of reducing dependence on countries like Russia and China, which may seek to exploit that dependence to influence foreign politics.
Trudeau further argued that investors prefer stability in countries with strong social safety nets and that Canadian-made goods are more appealing than cheaper options from countries like China. He stated that instead of ruling out Chinese-made goods, global companies should opt for products and materials from countries that fight climate change and provide decent wages to their workers. This approach, he said, would allow democracies to become leaders in industries like lithium mining.
Steinmeier’s visit to Canada was focused on the importance of democratic values, and he echoed Trudeau’s sentiments. At a reception held by the German ambassador, Steinmeier spoke about the need to prevent vulnerability to attacks on critical infrastructure like democracy. Both leaders also discussed the importance of combating misinformation and having a shared set of facts in order for democracy to function properly.
Overall, Trudeau and Steinmeier emphasized the need for democracies to prioritize both environmental sustainability and the rule of law in their efforts to become leaders in the race for green technology. They also warned about the challenges posed by countries like China and the importance of upholding democratic values in the face of those challenges.