Towards Mutuality in the Canada-China Relationship: The Experience of the Department of Surgery at Laval University since the 1980s

The Department of Surgery at Laval University has been a key player in the development of Canada-China cooperation since the 1980s. The projects initiated and developed by Jean Couture and Guojin Liu to address cancer issues, and specifically breast cancer, were heralded as outstanding successes. In the meantime, the Department of Surgery at Laval University trained numerous Chinese scholars, students, and post-doctoral fellows who became leaders in their fields of expertise. A few of these scholars and students settled in Canada, but the vast majority returned home. Since 2007, a highly specialized research program related to surgical implants with the College of Textiles at Donghua University has been opening new avenues in medical textiles to develop expertise through student training, to launch bridges between textile engineers and clinicians, and to provide the industry with a unique expertise. The final goal is to improve the accessibility and affordability of health care delivery in both Canada and China. China is now a key player in related research and no longer requires foreign assistance. Since it can easily find multiple partners, Canada must be alert to building on its legacy and maintaining its privileged position. China is now a place for Canadian champions.