Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has warned that the global political and economic system is steadily unraveling under the pressure of repeated crises, calling on middle powers such as Australia and Canada to work more closely together to shape the future international order.
Speaking before the Parliament of Australia, Carney said the existing global architecture was weakening after years of geopolitical tension, economic shocks and security disruptions. He stressed that nations outside the traditional superpower blocs must now decide whether they will help design the rules governing global security and prosperity or allow dominant powers to dictate the outcomes.
Describing Australia and Canada as “strategic cousins,” Carney said the two countries share common values, democratic traditions and economic interests that make them natural partners in navigating a rapidly changing world.
He urged both nations to deepen cooperation in critical sectors such as critical minerals, defence capabilities and artificial intelligence, arguing that stronger collaboration would help them build sovereign capabilities and reduce dependence on major global powers.
According to Carney, middle powers have a unique opportunity to assert greater influence at a time when the global balance of power is shifting. By coordinating policies and strengthening alliances, he said countries like Canada and Australia can help ensure stability and prosperity in the evolving international landscape.
