EDITORIAL PAGE — Chretien and Team Canada

Canadians are experiencing something they have not felt for some time — widespread approval for an initiative launched by the prime minister.

Jean Chretien’s recent trade mission to China was much more than an economic success for business leaders, who were able to secure contracts and new opportunities. It was confirmation that the “Team Canada” approach is an effective way for federal and provincial governments to work together for the common good.

Many Canadians must have thought they were dreaming in Technicolor when television news crews showed the prime minister, nine premiers and various business leaders cheering together as each contract was signed. The businessmen appreciated the government’s backing and support, the premiers were happy to come back home with the promise of more jobs and Chretien was basking in the highest approval rating of any recent Canadian prime minister. By contrast, Quebec Premier Jacques Parizeau looked silly for not attending a trade mission that he, being an economist by profession, ought to have recognized as too important to miss. Chretien, fortunately, had no trouble waving the flag for both Canada and Quebec.

Overall, the mission was a resounding success, even if not all the contracts and letters of intent (worth $8.9 billion) materialize. Canada’s business community brought home $2.6 billion worth of firm contracts; its reputation was strengthened, and its expertise in various industries was prominently showcased.

Still, there are naysayers who are critical of government’s role in this trade mission, on the basis that not enough emphasis was placed on human rights. But they fail to realize that the economic changes taking root in China today will, in due course, bring about political and social change and a better life for China’s citizens.