Canada Confirms Execution of Four Dual Citizens in China Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Canadian authorities have confirmed the execution of four dual citizens in China for drug crimes, exacerbating tensions between Canada and China. This incident has sparked calls for clemency and renewed scrutiny on Beijing's handling of foreign nationals and judicial sovereignty.

Four Canadian citizens, who held dual nationality, were executed in China earlier this year on drug-related charges, as confirmed by Canadian officials. The identities of these individuals remain undisclosed. Canada's Foreign Minister, Mélanie Joly, has been closely monitoring the situation and has expressed deep concern regarding the executions, which are expected to further sour the already strained diplomatic relations between Canada and China.

In a response to Ottawa's condemnation, a spokesperson from the Chinese embassy in Canada encouraged officials to avoid "irresponsible remarks," asserting that China acted "in accordance with the law," and insisting there was "solid and sufficient" evidence for the convictions. China's Foreign Ministry emphasized that the rights of the Canadian nationals had been protected throughout the judicial process, urging Canada to respect its judicial sovereignty.

China’s refusal to recognize dual citizenship compounded the severity of the sentences for drug offenses, with executions being particularly rare for foreigners. Joly remarked that she, along with various officials, tried to secure clemency for the individuals but was ultimately unsuccessful. "Canada has remained firm in its opposition to the death penalty in all situations," stated Charlotte MacLeod from Global Affairs Canada, reiterating the government's stance against the execution of its citizens.

Human rights advocates, like Ketty Nivyabandi from Amnesty International Canada, condemned the executions, labeling them "shocking and inhumane." They voiced sympathy for the families affected as Canada grapples with two other citizens currently on death row in China, jeopardizing further diplomatic negotiations.

The already icy relations between Canada and China took a downward turn in 2018, following Canada's arrest of Chinese telecom executive Meng Wanzhou, leading to the arrest of two Canadian nationals in China. Recently, Canadian media have reported alleged Chinese interference in federal elections, further complicating the diplomatic landscape between the two countries.

As the international community watches closely, Joly has committed to continuing appeals for leniency for other Canadians in similar situations, while emphasizing the need for accountability and transparency in China’s legal system.