Ottawa: Canadian authorities have confirmed that four of its citizens have been executed in China on drug-related charges.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly stated that the four individuals held dual citizenship, but their identities were not being disclosed at the request of their families.
Joly expressed deep condemnation of the executions, calling them an "irreparable loss" and a "violation of fundamental human rights." She also revealed that she had personally urged Chinese officials to show leniency in the matter.
In response, a spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in Canada defended the executions, asserting that the evidence against the individuals was "solid and sufficient." The spokesperson criticized Canada for making "irresponsible statements" and urged Ottawa to respect China’s judicial sovereignty.
China does not recognize dual citizenship and maintains a strict stance on drug offenses, often imposing severe penalties, including the death sentence.
