Beijing slams third countries' reaction to the recent detention of two Canadian nationals in China as a double standard, given that they were not concerned with human rights violations when Huawei's chief financial officer was detained in Canada, the Chinese Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman said on Monday.
BEIJING (Pakistan Point News / Sputnik - 24th December, 2018) Beijing slams third countries' reaction to the recent detention of two Canadian nationals in China as a double standard, given that they were not concerned with human rights violations when Huawei's chief financial officer was detained in Canada, the Chinese Foreign Ministry's spokeswoman said on Monday.Canada and the United States have repeatedly criticized the detention of Canadian nationals in China, calling it unacceptable. On Saturday, Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland called on China to immediately release two Canadian citizens, also stressing that Canada's legal proceedings with respect to Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou were unbiased and transparent. Freeland also pledged to cooperate with a "broad group of allies" to urge China to release the Canadians.
"Where have they [third countries] been when the Canadian authorities detained Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou at the US' request? It seems like they're applying different standards when it comes to human rights," Hua Chunying said at a press briefing.
She went on to protest Freeland's claims.
"China expresses vigorous protest and discontent over related statements by the Canadian side. As we have already said, the Chinese authorities ensure full observance of the rights and interests of the Canadian nationals, while they also stick to their consular commitments," the spokeswoman added.
Canadian-Chinese relations have recently deteriorated following Meng's arrest in Vancouver on December 1 on suspicion of failing to comply with the US sanctions against Iran. She faces extradition.
Against this backdrop, Chinese authorities detained ex-diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor on December 10 on charges of threatening national security.
