Statement by the Honourable John McCallum, Ambassador of Canada to the People’s Republic of China

Statement

January 24, 2019 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

Canada is a country governed by the rule of law.

Canada is conducting a fair, unbiased, and transparent legal proceeding with respect to Meng Wanzhou, Huawei’s Chief Financial Officer, which includes the ability for individuals to mount a vigorous defence before a court of law. I regret that my comments with respect to the legal proceedings of Ms. Meng have created confusion. I misspoke. These comments do not accurately represent my position on this issue. As the government has consistently made clear, there has been no political involvement in this process.

Canada respects its international legal commitments, including by honouring its extradition treaty with the United States. The rule of law is fundamental to all free societies, and we will continue to defend and uphold this principle.

As Canada’s Ambassador to China, I play no role in assessing any arguments or making any determinations in the extradition process. The Canadian government’s priority – and my priority – is securing the release of the two Canadians arbitrarily detained in China and ensuring that the rights of all of our citizens are protected. Every action our government takes is focused on the safety and security of these Canadians. That will continue to be our absolute priority until they can return home.

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