Canada’s Foreign Minister revealed that four dual citizens were executed in China for drug-related crimes, further straining already tense diplomatic relations.
China Executes Four Canadians Amid Diplomatic Strain
China Executes Four Canadians Amid Diplomatic Strain
Canada confirms dual citizens executed in China for drug offenses, raising tensions between the two nations.
Four Canadians, all dual citizens, have been executed by the Chinese government on drug charges, as confirmed by Canadian authorities. The identities of those executed have not been disclosed, but Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly stated she has been closely monitoring the situation and attempted to intervene, along with former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, to prevent the executions.
The Chinese embassy in Canada responded by urging Ottawa to cease making what it termed "irresponsible remarks," amid fears that these events would exacerbate the already fraught relationship between the two countries. China’s foreign ministry defended its actions, insisting that they were in accordance with the law, and maintained that there was "solid and sufficient" evidence against the executed individuals.
While Canada recognizes dual citizenship, China does not and upholds stringent penalties for drug-related crimes, including the death penalty. Human rights organizations assert that the country has one of the highest execution rates worldwide, although specific numbers are rarely disclosed. “These shocking and inhumane executions of Canadian citizens should serve as a wake-up call for Canada,” remarked Ketty Nivyabandi of Amnesty International Canada, expressing deep concern for the victims' families.
Global Affairs Canada reiterated its longstanding opposition to the death penalty, having previously called for clemency for these individuals. The tragic news comes in the wake of continued tensions between Canada and China, which have persisted since 2018 following the arrest of Chinese executive Meng Wanzhou amid a U.S. extradition request—an incident that led to the detention of two Canadian citizens, who have since been released.
Reports have also surfaced regarding alleged Chinese interference in Canadian federal elections, which Beijing has dismissed as "baseless," resulting in further diplomatic strain. Additionally, the recent imposition of tariffs by China on Canadian farm products, following Canada's own tariffs on Chinese imports, indicates a significant cooling of relations.
