UMVA has learned that a recent in-house federal research study has revealed a striking perception among Canadians, with the majority viewing China as a significant threat to national security, surpassing concerns about Iran.
The study, which polled over 2,000 people across Canada, found that 66% of respondents see China as a major threat, while 70% harbor similar concerns about Russia, and only 34% view Iran with the same level of suspicion.
These findings come on the heels of a series of announcements by the Prime Minister, who has been actively promoting a "new partnership" with China, citing the need to "learn from, partner with, and access and build supply chains" with the country, highlighting its "formidable" strengths.
However, the same poll also uncovered deep-seated concerns among Canadians about foreign interference, with 61% expressing high levels of concern about election interference, 58% about government interference, and 48% about foreign meddling in social media platforms.
Furthermore, a staggering 52% of respondents believe that Canada has become more dangerous over the past five years, marking a significant shift in public perception since 2018 and 2021, with many Canadians now feeling that their country is less secure than it was in the past.
According to information obtained by UMVA, this study was conducted by a leading research firm and cost a substantial amount, indicating the gravity with which the government views these issues and the importance of understanding public opinion on matters of national security.
Interestingly, the Prime Minister's stance on China has been somewhat inconsistent, with a notable instance where he labeled China the biggest threat to Canadian security during an unscripted debate, a statement he has not repeated since, leaving many to wonder about the true nature of Canada's relationship with China.
