Canada: Canada and China are once again at odds over allegations of attempted interference in Canadian politics by Beijing. This has led to Ottawa summoning China’s ambassador to address the matter. The recent incident is the latest development in an ongoing diplomatic feud between the two countries.

Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Ms. Mélanie Joly announced that the country had summoned Beijing’s ambassador in response to allegations that China had attempted to interfere in its elections and intimidate a Canadian politician. While China denies the allegations, Canada is considering taking retaliatory measures.

During a tense exchange with opposition member Mr. Michael Chong, Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Ms. Joly disclosed that he was the target of the alleged intimidation by China. Mr. Chong, who has criticized the Canadian government’s handling of the matter, was the focus of the alleged interference.

A spokesperson for China’s consulate-general in Toronto rejected the accusations made in Canada this week, expressing “firm opposition and strong dissatisfaction” to the claims. The spokesperson further called on the media and politicians to refrain from “spreading rumours and smearing.”

During a news conference on 4th May 2023, Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Ms. Mao Ning rejected the allegations and stated that China opposes any interference in a country’s internal affairs. He further added that “we never interfere in Canada’s internal affairs and have no interest whatsoever in doing so. At the same time, we are resolute in defending our sovereignty, security and development interests and opposing actions that interfere in China’s internal affairs and harm China’s interests.” Earlier, a spokesperson for China’s consulate-general in Toronto had expressed “strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition” to the allegations made against China.

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