Thu Mar 20 06:03:54 UTC 2025: ## Canada Condemns Execution of Four Dual Citizens by China

**OTTAWA** – Canada has strongly condemned the execution of four Canadian dual citizens by China, a move described as unprecedented and a significant escalation in already strained relations between the two countries. Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly revealed the executions on Wednesday, stating that she and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had personally appealed for clemency. The executions were related to drug-related charges, though the Canadian government has withheld the identities of the deceased at the request of their families.

Beijing maintains that the executions were justified due to the severity of the drug crimes, asserting the evidence was sufficient. A spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in Ottawa stated that China does not recognize dual citizenship and accused Canada of making “irresponsible remarks.”

The executions have sparked outrage in Canada. Opposition Conservative lawmaker Michael Chong called the move unprecedented, highlighting that Beijing shows no intention of improving relations. Former Canadian ambassador to China, Guy Saint-Jacques, suggested the executions are a deliberate message from China regarding bilateral relations, further complicated by recent retaliatory tariffs imposed by both countries on various imports.

These latest developments follow years of tense relations stemming from the 2018 arrest of a Huawei executive in Canada at the request of the United States. China subsequently detained two Canadians, who were released in 2021 following a deal in the Huawei executive’s case.

Amnesty International has also condemned the executions, highlighting China’s high rate of executions globally. The Canadian government continues to provide consular assistance to the families of the deceased and urges respect for their privacy. The incident marks a significant low point in Canada-China relations and raises serious concerns about human rights and the treatment of foreign nationals in China.

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