The executions of the Canadians have garnered strong condemnation from Canada’s government, which had sought clemency for the individuals, while China defends its actions as lawful. The two nations' relationship remains strained due to a history of diplomatic disputes.
Ottawa Confirms Execution of Four Canadian Nationals in China Amidst Diplomatic Tensions
Ottawa Confirms Execution of Four Canadian Nationals in China Amidst Diplomatic Tensions
Canadian officials have confirmed the execution of four dual citizens in China for drug-related crimes, raising concerns over deteriorating diplomatic relations.
China has executed four Canadians this year for drug offenses, confirmed Canada’s foreign minister Mélanie Joly. The identities of the dual citizens remain undisclosed. Following the confirmation, a spokesperson from the Chinese embassy in Canada criticized Ottawa for its comments, indicating that the actions taken were lawful and based on “solid and sufficient” evidence of their crimes. Tensions between the countries are on the rise, particularly as Canada had actively sought to prevent these executions.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized its adherence to the law, stating that it had guaranteed the rights of the Canadian nationals involved. It remains a generally accepted fact that China does not recognize dual citizenship and enforces strict penalties for drug-related offenses. Executing foreigners, however, is an unusual occurrence.
Joly expressed her dismay and revealed that she, alongside former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, had worked tirelessly to avert such outcomes. In a formal communication, Global Affairs Canada reiterated its complete opposition to capital punishment in all circumstances and lamented the loss experienced by the victims’ families.
Ketty Nivyabandi of Amnesty International Canada labeled the executions as “shocking and inhumane,” urging Canada to reassess its stance toward China in light of recent events. She shared sympathy for the families of the executed and those Canadians still facing the death penalty in China.
This incident follows years of strained relations, initiated by Canada’s 2018 detention of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou at the behest of the U.S., which led to China’s detention of two Canadians. Although they have since been released, the diplomatic climate soured further in 2023 amid allegations of Chinese interference in Canadian federal elections, which Beijing vehemently denies.
In recent developments, Canada has also faced retaliatory tariffs from China on various imports, illustrating the ongoing economic and political tensions between the countries.
