Beijing, Jan. 16 -- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Thursday during his first official visit to China, marking the first bilateral visit by a Canadian prime minister since 2017.

According to a statement, Carney and Li discussed shifts in the global economy, including pressures on international trade and supply chains, and explored areas for deeper cooperation.

Both the countries welcomed a series of memorandums of understanding covering energy, combating crime, modern wood construction, culture, food safety, and plant and animal health, which officials said would form the basis of a new strategic partnership.

Carney highlighted opportunities to expand trade and investment, particularly in the energy ...