China Executes Four Canadians for Drug Crimes – Ottawa Reacts
Canada confirms China executed four Canadian citizens on drug charges. Ottawa condemns the move, while Beijing defends its judicial process.
China Executes Four Canadian Citizens Over Drug-Related Crimes – Ottawa Confirms
Four Canadian citizens were executed in China earlier this year on drug-related charges, Canada’s foreign ministry has confirmed.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly expressed strong condemnation of the executions, calling them "irreversible and contrary to fundamental human dignity." She also revealed that she had personally requested clemency.
All four individuals held dual citizenship, though their identities have been withheld at the request of their families.
China’s embassy in Canada defended the legal proceedings, stating that the evidence against the individuals was “conclusive and sufficient.” The embassy further urged Ottawa to refrain from making "irresponsible remarks" about the matter, according to reports.
Additionally, Beijing maintained that it had “fully safeguarded the rights and interests of the Canadian citizens involved,” while urging the Canadian government to respect China’s judicial sovereignty.
China does not recognize dual citizenship and enforces a stringent policy on drug-related crimes, often imposing severe penalties.
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