Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said that Canada and Australia have the capacity to “set the agenda” in global affairs as the world confronts mounting geopolitical crises and an increasingly unstable international order.

Speaking during a visit to Canberra, Carney emphasized that countries traditionally described as “middle powers” can play a decisive role in shaping international responses to economic, security and technological challenges.

He argued that the current period of turbulence presents an opportunity for countries such as Canada and Australia to strengthen cooperation and exert greater influence on the global stage.

Carney described the current moment as one marked by overlapping crises, including escalating conflicts, shifting geopolitical alliances and growing competition over resources and technology.

In this environment, he said, coordinated leadership among trusted partners could help stabilize global institutions and drive new initiatives in trade, security and innovation.

Addressing Australian lawmakers and policymakers, the Canadian leader highlighted the long-standing partnership between the two countries and suggested their relationship could become even more strategically significant.

He described Canada and Australia as natural partners that share democratic values, strong economic links and close security cooperation.

The visit, which included meetings with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and business leaders, was designed to deepen ties in areas such as defence collaboration, artificial intelligence, space technology and critical minerals supply chains.

Both countries are major producers of key resources used in advanced technologies and energy transitions, making cooperation in this sector a central part of their strategic agenda.

Carney also pointed to the wider geopolitical context behind his push for closer cooperation.

In recent speeches, he has warned that the global order built after the Cold War is under increasing strain as rival powers compete more aggressively and international institutions struggle to respond effectively to crises.

He argued that in such an environment, countries like Canada and Australia should not simply react to decisions made by larger powers.

Instead, he said, they can actively shape international initiatives by building coalitions with like-minded partners and coordinating policy on issues ranging from security to supply chains.

The Canadian prime minister’s visit to Australia forms part of a broader diplomatic tour across the Indo-Pacific aimed at strengthening alliances and expanding economic partnerships.

After his meetings in Australia, he is expected to travel onward to Japan for further talks on trade and regional security cooperation.

By strengthening collaboration between countries that share strategic interests and democratic institutions, Carney said Canada and Australia can help guide global responses during a period of uncertainty and ensure that emerging international frameworks reflect their values and priorities.