Canada Condemns China’s Executions of Canadian Citizens Amid Tense Relations
Canada condemns China’s execution of Canadian citizens and reaffirms its opposition to the death penalty. Relations between the countries are tense, exacerbated by tariff disputes, while China defends its actions as part of its strict drug policy.
The Canadian government has officially condemned the execution of Canadian citizens by China, which occurred earlier this year. The Foreign Ministry expressed a strong stance against the death penalty, asserting, “Canada repeatedly called for clemency for these individuals at the senior-most levels and remains steadfast in its opposition to the use of the death penalty in all cases, everywhere.” While the ministry did not provide further specifics, it confirmed that Robert Schellenberg, sentenced to death in 2019 for drug smuggling, has not yet been executed.
Relations between Canada and China have been strained for several years, further complicated by recent events. Earlier this month, Beijing announced tariffs on more than USD 2.6 billion worth of Canadian agricultural and food products, retaliating against tariffs imposed by Ottawa on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum products. Amid this ongoing tension, the Chinese embassy in Ottawa characterized Canada’s statements as “irresponsible remarks.”
Furthermore, the embassy emphasized China’s stringent penalties for drug-related offenses, maintaining a “zero tolerance” approach to the drug issue, although it did not confirm any of the alleged executions of Canadian citizens.
In summary, Canada has denounced China’s recent executions of Canadian citizens, affirming its opposition to the death penalty. The strained relations between the two nations are marked by retaliatory tariffs and conflicting statements. The situation calls for continued dialogue and advocacy for human rights, as highlighted by Canada’s appeals for clemency.
Original Source: www.usnews.com
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