Who said we'd assume China will defend Canadian interests? The current strategy is focused on growing much closer to the EU while becoming a trade bridge for Atlantic/Pacific relations. Canada has a lot of clout on the international stage so we've been able to match-make trade linkages while expanding our market.

Canada isn't a first rate power - if the US or China decided to unilaterally target us it'd be deeply damaging. The hope is that working in concert with other middle powers we can form a cushion to soften a blow - not fully turn it.

America has already failed to defend them. Our deranged president has threatened to invade them, and yet he's still in power.

Has China ever threatened to invade Canada?

When did America defend Canada's interests that didn't coincide with American interests?