China has recently executed four Canadian citizens convicted of drug-related offenses, intensifying diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The individuals, who held dual Canadian-Chinese citizenship, were executed earlier this year after Chinese authorities upheld their convictions despite appeals for clemency from Canadian officials, including Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly and former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
China maintains a strict stance on drug-related crimes, with capital punishment applicable to offenses ranging from murder to drug trafficking. The exact number of executions is undisclosed, as execution data is considered a state secret.
This incident highlights China’s firm approach to law enforcement and its disregard for dual nationality, as it does not recognize dual citizenship. The executions have drawn sharp criticism from the international community, with Amnesty International condemning China’s actions and urging Canada to continue advocating for human rights.