This year four Canadian citizens were executed in China after being convicted of drug smuggling, according to Reuters.
All four held dual Canadian-Chinese citizenship. Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly confirmed the executions on Wednesday, March 19, and stated that the Canadian government is in communication with Beijing to seek clemency for other Canadian citizens facing similar charges.
China defended its actions, stating it acted “in accordance with the law.”
Execution of Canadian Citizens Denounced
Mélanie Joly strongly criticized China’s decision, emphasizing that Canada had been pleading for leniency since the convictions.
“We strongly condemn the executions that did happen against Canadians in China,” Joly said.
She refrained from discussing further details out of respect for the victims’ families.
Marc Garneau, former Canadian foreign minister, also condemned China’s actions, stating, “Canada strongly condemns China’s decision to uphold the death penalty sentence. We have repeatedly expressed to China our firm opposition to this cruel and inhumane punishment.”
Beijing Defends the Death Penalty
Chinese officials justified the executions by highlighting their strict drug policies.
