Commonwealth_ Canada has strongly condemned the execution of four of its citizens in China earlier this year, marking a rare instance of Westerners facing capital punishment in the country. The announcement was made by Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mélanie Joly, on Wednesday, who confirmed that both she and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had personally appealed for clemency in the drug-related cases involving the individuals.
Beijing’s embassy in Ottawa defended the executions, stating they were carried out as a result of drug crimes and reaffirming China’s policy of not recognizing dual citizenship. “We strongly condemn the executions,” Joly told reporters. “I asked personally for leniency … They were all dual citizens.” She also noted that Canada consistently advocates for clemency for any of its citizens facing the death penalty abroad.
Canada’s efforts to prevent executions
Joly revealed that the Canadian government had repeatedly engaged with Chinese authorities in an attempt to prevent the executions, emphasizing that diplomatic channels had been exhausted. She further stated that the families of the deceased requested privacy and asked the government not to disclose their identities.
Global Affairs Canada spokeswoman Charlotte MacLeod confirmed that consular assistance was being provided to the affected families and urged the media to respect their privacy. She also reiterated Canada’s ongoing efforts to secure clemency for Robert Schellenberg, a Canadian who was sentenced to death in China for drug smuggling.
China has long been known for its extensive use of capital punishment, executing more prisoners each year than the rest of the world combined, though exact figures remain a closely guarded state secret. Traditionally, executions in China have been carried out by gunshot, but recently, lethal injections have become more common.
Beijing Defends Its Actions
The Chinese embassy in Ottawa responded to Canada’s criticism, stating that the rights and interests of the Canadian nationals involved had been fully protected under Chinese law. The spokesperson also called on the Canadian government to “stop making irresponsible remarks” regarding the executions.
The embassy’s statement underscores China’s firm stance on drug-related crimes, which are often met with severe punishment, including the death penalty. Beijing has historically maintained that drug offenses pose a significant threat to society and must be dealt with decisively.
Growing Diplomatic and Trade Tensions
The executions come amid increasing tensions between China and Canada, which have been exacerbated by recent trade disputes. Earlier this month, China imposed retaliatory tariffs on several Canadian farm and food imports, following Canada’s decision in October to impose duties on Chinese-made electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum products. These measures are part of a broader wave of global trade conflicts, with multiple rounds of tariffs being announced by the United States, China, Canada, and Mexico. Observers believe that China’s latest actions send a strong message to Canada regarding the state of bilateral relations. “China is sending us a message that we have to take steps if we want to see an improvement in the relationship,” said Guy Saint-Jacques, a former Canadian ambassador to China.
Political figures in Canada have also expressed concern over the implications of these executions. Ian Brodie, a former chief of staff to ex-Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, commented on social media that the executions were an even harsher response than the agricultural tariffs imposed by China. Meanwhile, opposition Conservative lawmaker Michael Chong described the executions as “unprecedented” and a clear indication that Beijing has no immediate intention of improving diplomatic relations with Canada.
The Broader Impact
The executions highlight the broader geopolitical struggle between China and Western nations, as diplomatic and economic tensions continue to escalate. Canada has found itself in a challenging position, balancing trade interests with human rights concerns. The country has been vocal in its criticism of China’s human rights record, particularly regarding its treatment of Uyghur Muslims and its crackdown on freedoms in Hong Kong.
Moving forward, Canada is expected to reassess its diplomatic strategy with China, particularly in light of these recent executions. The government’s response will likely shape future interactions between the two nations and influence how other Western countries navigate their own relationships with Beijing.
