I completely agree. Canada can lead the way.
Yes, many of its companies are not on Canadian soil, but Canada has a duty to protect its citizens, so it can still prohibit the development of superintelligence on Canadian soil as it endangers national security and all of its citizens. Canada can start working together with other like-minded countries, including other middle powers.
Even just making the first move can get this ball rolling. We have seen this with many other issues in the past. One country moving first can lead to many others following and can lead to genuine global change.