CHINA has lodged a solemn representation to Canada after its newly released 'Indo-Pacific strategy' chided China on issues such as the Taiwan question and diplomacy, and urged Ottawa to show sincerity if it wants to improve ties. Observers also believed the bluntly hostile strategy serves as further proof that Canada is becoming bogged down deeper as the US' vassal in countering China in the region.

They also warned Canada that whoever stands on the frontline of the US' anti-China plan will be first to bear the fire of a counterstrike. As Washington itself is finding it difficult to decouple from China in several areas and seeking help from Beijing when it becomes mired in economic crisis, how much Canada can bear the consequences of challenging China, remains to be seen, experts said.