Canada’s former ambassador to China, David Mulroney, criticized the $140,000 expenditure for a delegation’s two-day trip to China in August, led by Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault. Mulroney suggested that the delegation appeared to be bloated and top-heavy for what he considered a brief and inconsequential trip.
Mr. Guilbeault led a seven-person delegation to China from Aug. 26–31 for the annual general meeting of the China Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED). The total estimated cost of the delegation was $140,073.60, which covered airfare, accommodation, meals, and other incidentals. Mr. Guilbeault’s own expenses amounted to $17,359.97, with per-person costs for other members of the delegation varying.
The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) also raised concerns about the government’s approach to addressing climate change, criticizing its use of jet fuel and taxpayers’ funds. This isn’t the first time Mr. Guilbeault has led a delegation facing such accusations, as a similar excessive spending issue occurred during a United Nations climate change conference in Egypt.
The delegate engagement in China focused on discussions related to climate change and how it is affecting the world, as well as a roundtable exploring the relationship between the green industry and economic development. However, concerns have been raised about the CCICED’s open praise of Chinese leader Xi Jinping and promotion of his geopolitical schemes, such as the Belt and Road Initiative.