Canada calls for Middle East ceasefire, says South China Sea confrontation is 'troubling'

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand has renewed calls for an immediate de-escalation and permanent ceasefire in the Middle East while she warned that the humanitarian situation had become "quite grave". Anand also raised concern over tensions in the South China Sea.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) foreign ministers' meeting in Manila on Wednesday (22 July), Anand said protecting civilians must remain the priority as fighting continues across the region.

Canada presses for permanent ceasefire

Anand said Ottawa would continue to push for diplomacy over further military escalation.

"We will always call for de-escalation, a ceasefire, and respect for humanitarian considerations and human life," she said.

She added that Canada hopes all parties will return to negotiations and secure a lasting truce.

"The situation is quite grave, and we very much hope that parties will come to the table and ensure that the permanent ceasefire is negotiated and held."

The minister also stressed the need to protect hospitals, schools and other civilian infrastructure, which have repeatedly come under threat during conflicts in the region.

Canada has consistently backed humanitarian access in conflict zones and has previously supported international efforts aimed at reducing civilian casualties while encouraging diplomatic solutions.

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Concerns over tensions in the South China Sea

Alongside the Middle East, Anand raised concerns about growing tensions in the South China Sea following another confrontation between Philippine and Chinese vessels.

"Without question, the incident is troubling, and we are concerned," she said. "We do not agree with intimidation as a means of addressing disputes."

Territorial disputes in the South China Sea have fuelled tensions for years, with China maintaining expansive claims that overlap with those of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan. Several confrontations at sea have heightened fears of a broader regional conflict.

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Canada reiterated its support for resolving maritime disputes through international law, particularly under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which provides the legal framework for maritime rights and navigation.

Anand also reaffirmed Canada's commitment to a "free and open Indo-Pacific", saying international law should remain the foundation for resolving disputes.

"Whether we're talking about the Indo-Pacific, the Strait of Hormuz, or waterways generally, there is a need to remember that the structure of freely navigable waters and international law is a guidepost that we can gravitate towards," she said.

Meanwhile, China asks countries to stop "exaggerating tensions" and rejects Australia's accusations over the South China confrontation.

"China urges relevant countries to stop stirring up tension and inciting confrontation," Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian said at a daily briefing, adding that Beijing would continue to properly handle maritime-related disputes through dialogue and consultation.

The comment came after Australia's Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong warned Beijing against "destablising" conduct in the region referring to an altercation on Monday in which Manila said one of its navy personnel was struck on the head. 

Talks with China

Anand also confirmed she met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Tuesday, where discussions covered bilateral relations and wider regional security.

"In terms of the broader geopolitical situation, we did spend some time on the Indo-Pacific, and I raised my concerns," she said, without providing further details.

Relations between Ottawa and Beijing have remained strained in recent years over issues including national security, trade and foreign interference allegations, although both governments have continued diplomatic engagement.

Trade high on Canada's ASEAN agenda

Beyond security issues, Anand said strengthening economic ties with Southeast Asia remains a key priority for Canada.

Ottawa is seeking to reduce its reliance on the United States by expanding trade with other regions, with negotiations continuing on a free trade agreement between Canada and ASEAN.

"Making sure that there's unanimity towards concluding the FTA between ASEAN and Canada, that's our top priority here at this summit," Anand said.

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ASEAN, which represents 10 Southeast Asian nations, has become an increasingly important economic partner for Canada as governments seek to diversify supply chains and deepen trade links across the Indo-Pacific.

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News Canada Anita Anand China South China Sea Middle East ceasefire ASEAN Penny Wong Security