Normalizing Canada−China relations through development diplomacy: a case study of Canadian legacies from the first IFAD-funded international development-aid project in China, 1981–1988

ABSTRACT This article applies historical research with cross-disciplinary analysis to investigate some “lost” stories of Canadian engagement in China’s first multilateral development-aid project in 1981–1988. Policy reflection on bilateral relations can benefit from expanding recognition of some early Canadian experiences marginally examined in this significant case of Development Diplomacy within a Chinese context. Almost forgotten, these collaboration practices yet started when a small team of Canadian agricultural specialists provided three years of consulting service to this Northern Pasture and Livestock Development project co-funded by the IFAD. Our archival inquiries create refreshing lessons for international development-aid initiatives that advocate community-based, multiple-stakeholders collaboration for restoring bilateral relations.