Ignatieff in China: Avoiding "megaphone diplomacy"

Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff is in Beijing today where, among other things, he delivered a speech at the University of Tsinghua. An excerpt:

And as China continues to work toward fostering a harmonious society, Canada must remain engaged with China, as we have been in the past, on important issues of mutual concern.

We must be ready to speak plainly with one another about human rights, always understanding that neither of our countries has a flawless past or present, and always conscious of the vast differences in our respective histories, societies, and political cultures.

Canada can contribute more to the development of human rights in China and to strengthening the rule of law through this array of people-to-people interactions, than by megaphone diplomacy.

We should move forward together, to learn from each other in matters of rights, justice, civil service reform, and corporate social responsibility.

…. I’m in China to build relationships and build trust.

I’m in China to understand, to listen, and to learn.

I am here to engage China as a friend to Canada, and to speak frankly, as good friends do.

And I intend to be back frequently.