<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-approves-extradition-process-of-huawei-former-cfo-meng-wanzhou-200597">Canada approves extradition process of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou</a>

The Canadian government, as expected, on Friday approved extradition proceedings against the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, prompting a furious reaction from China.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/you-rule-the-skies-and-you-rule-our-hearts-bcci-welcomes-iaf-wing-commander-abhinandan-varthaman-200611">'You rule the skies and you rule our hearts,' BCCI welcomes IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan</a>

As the country rejoiced and celebrated the return of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as he crossed over the Indian border at 9.17 pm on Friday, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and sports fraternity flooded Twitter with welcome messages for India's hero.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-urges-bangladesh-not-to-close-door-to-myanmar-refugees-200604">United Nations urges Bangladesh not to close </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-urges-bangladesh-not-to-close-door-to-myanmar-refugees-200604">door</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/united-nations-urges-bangladesh-not-to-close-door-to-myanmar-refugees-200604"> to Myanmar refugees</a>

The United Nations on Friday stressed that refugees fleeing conflict should be granted safe haven after Bangladesh declared that it would no longer take in Myanmar's Rohingya.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-amid-us-sanctions-russia-pledges-new-relief-to-maduro-government-200602">Venezuela: Amid US sanctions, Russia pledges new relief to Maduro regime</a>

The United States and Russia clashed Friday over how to assist ailing Venezuela, with Moscow pledging new relief channelled through President Nicolas Maduro and Washington slapping sanctions over the blocking of US aid it tried to force through the border.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/chlorine-used-in-attack-on-syrias-douma-watchdog-200600">Chlorine used in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/chlorine-used-in-attack-on-syrias-douma-watchdog-200600">attack</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/chlorine-used-in-attack-on-syrias-douma-watchdog-200600"> on Syria's Douma: Watchdog</a>

The world's chemical weapons watchdog said Friday that chlorine was used against the rebel-held Syrian town of Douma in 2018, in a long-awaited final report on the deadly attack.

&nbsp;

Canada approves extradition process of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou The Canadian government, as expected, on Friday approved extradition proceedings against the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, prompting a furious reaction from China.

Canada approves extradition process of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou The Canadian government, as expected, on Friday approved extradition proceedings against the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, prompting a furious reaction from China. 'You rule the skies and you rule our hearts,' BCCI welcomes IAF Wing Commander Abhinandan As the country rejoiced and celebrated the return of Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman as he crossed over the Indian border at 9.17 pm on Friday, Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and sports fraternity flooded Twitter with welcome messages for India's hero. United Nations urges Bangladesh not to close door to Myanmar refugees The United Nations on Friday stressed that refugees fleeing conflict should be granted safe haven after Bangladesh declared that it would no longer take in Myanmar's Rohingya. Venezuela: Amid US sanctions, Russia pledges new relief to Maduro regime The United States and Russia clashed Friday over how to assist ailing Venezuela, with Moscow pledging new relief channelled through President Nicolas Maduro and Washington slapping sanctions over the blocking of US aid it tried to force through the border. Chlorine used in attack on Syria's Douma: Watchdog The world's chemical weapons watchdog said Friday that chlorine was used against the rebel-held Syrian town of Douma in 2018, in a long-awaited final report on the deadly attack.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Canadian government, as expected, on Friday approved extradition proceedings against the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, prompting a furious reaction from China.

Meng Wanzhou, the daughter of Huawei's founder, was detained in Vancouver last December and is under house arrest. In late January the US Justice Department charged Meng and Huawei with conspiring to violate US sanctions on Iran.

Meng is due to appear in a Vancouver court at 10 am Pacific time (1800 GMT) on March 6, when a date will be set for her extradition hearing.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-row-china-questions-state-of-judicial-independence-in-canada-200522">Huawei invites US media to see for itself on spy claims</a>

"Today, Department of Justice Canada officials issued an authority to proceed, formally commencing an extradition process in the case of Ms&nbsp;Meng Wanzhou," the government said in a statement.

China, whose relations with Canada have deteriorated badly over the affair, denounced the decision and repeated previous demands for Meng's release.

US Justice Department spokeswoman Nicole Navas Oxman said Washington thanked the Canadian government for its assistance. "We greatly appreciate Canada's steadfast commitment to the rule of law," she said in a statement.

Legal experts had predicted the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau would give the go-ahead for extradition proceedings, given the close judicial relationship between Canada and the United States.

But it could be years before Meng is sent to the United States since Canada's slow-moving justice system allows many decisions to be appealed.

A final decision will likely come down to the federal justice minister, who will face the choice of angering the United States by rejecting the extradition bid, or China by accepting it.

Professor Wesley Wark of the University of Ottawa's Graduate School of Public and International Affairs said, "the Canadians will take a beating throughout this whole process" from China.

"I suspect the Trudeau government is desperately hoping that the Americans reach a deal with the Chinese," he said by phone.

US President Donald Trump told Reuters in December he would intervene if it served national security interests or helped close a trade deal with China, prompting Ottawa to stress the extradition process should not be politicized. Last week Trump played down the idea of dropping the charges.

After Meng's detention, China arrested two Canadians on national security grounds, and a Chinese court later sentenced to death a Canadian man who previously had only been jailed for drug smuggling.

Brock University professor Charles Burton, a former Canadian diplomat who served two postings in China, said Beijing was likely to retaliate further.

"They're not going to take this lying down ... one shudders to think what the consequences could be," he told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp, saying Beijing might crack down on Canadian canola shipments or stop Chinese students from going to Canada.

Ottawa rejects Chinese calls to release Meng, saying it cannot interfere with the judiciary.

"The Chinese side is utterly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes the issuance of (the) authority to proceed," the embassy in Ottawa said in a statement.

Beijing had earlier questioned the state of judicial independence in Canada, noting the government faces accusations that it tried to intervene to stop a corruption trial.

Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti declined to comment.

Huawei was not immediately available for comment.

Meng's lawyers said they were disappointed and described the US charges as politically motivated.

The Canadian government, as expected, on Friday approved extradition proceedings against the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, prompting a furious reaction from China.

The Canadian government, as expected, on Friday approved extradition proceedings against the chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, prompting a furious reaction from China. Meng Wanzhou, the daughter of Huawei's founder, was detained in Vancouver last December and is under house arrest. In late January the US Justice Department charged Meng and Huawei with conspiring to violate US sanctions on Iran. Meng is due to appear in a Vancouver court at 10 am Pacific time (1800 GMT) on March 6, when a date will be set for her extradition hearing. Also read: Huawei invites US media to see for itself on spy claims "Today, Department of Justice Canada officials issued an authority to proceed, formally commencing an extradition process in the case of Ms Meng Wanzhou," the government said in a statement. China, whose relations with Canada have deteriorated badly over the affair, denounced the decision and repeated previous demands for Meng's release. US Justice Department spokeswoman Nicole Navas Oxman said Washington thanked the Canadian government for its assistance. "We greatly appreciate Canada's steadfast commitment to the rule of law," she said in a statement. Legal experts had predicted the Liberal government of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau would give the go-ahead for extradition proceedings, given the close judicial relationship between Canada and the United States. But it could be years before Meng is sent to the United States since Canada's slow-moving justice system allows many decisions to be appealed. A final decision will likely come down to the federal justice minister, who will face the choice of angering the United States by rejecting the extradition bid, or China by accepting it. Professor Wesley Wark of the University of Ottawa's Graduate School of Public and International Affairs said, "the Canadians will take a beating throughout this whole process" from China. "I suspect the Trudeau government is desperately hoping that the Americans reach a deal with the Chinese," he said by phone. US President Donald Trump told Reuters in December he would intervene if it served national security interests or helped close a trade deal with China, prompting Ottawa to stress the extradition process should not be politicized. Last week Trump played down the idea of dropping the charges. After Meng's detention, China arrested two Canadians on national security grounds, and a Chinese court later sentenced to death a Canadian man who previously had only been jailed for drug smuggling. Brock University professor Charles Burton, a former Canadian diplomat who served two postings in China, said Beijing was likely to retaliate further. "They're not going to take this lying down ... one shudders to think what the consequences could be," he told the Canadian Broadcasting Corp, saying Beijing might crack down on Canadian canola shipments or stop Chinese students from going to Canada. Ottawa rejects Chinese calls to release Meng, saying it cannot interfere with the judiciary. "The Chinese side is utterly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes the issuance of (the) authority to proceed," the embassy in Ottawa said in a statement. Beijing had earlier questioned the state of judicial independence in Canada, noting the government faces accusations that it tried to intervene to stop a corruption trial. Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti declined to comment. Huawei was not immediately available for comment. Meng's lawyers said they were disappointed and described the US charges as politically motivated.

Canada approves extradition process of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou

China on Saturday asked the Canadian government to stop the process of extraditing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-approves-extradition-process-of-huawei-former-cfo-meng-wanzhou-200597">Meng Wanzhou</a>, the CFO of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei, to the United States.

"The US and Canada abuse of their extradition rules is a severe violation of the legitimate rights of a Chinese citizen," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lu Kang.

The Canadian Department of Justice on Friday had authorized the formal process to begin the extradition of Meng, daughter of the founder of Huawei, who was arrested on December 1 in the Canadian city of Vancouver, while she was on her way to Mexico.

"This is a serious political event. We once again urge the US to immediately withdraw the arrest warrant and extradition request for Meng Wanzhou," said Lu, adding that the two countries should immediately release Meng and allow her a safe passage to China.

In January, the US Department of Justice had accused Meng, Huawei, and two affiliated companies, of 13 counts of fraud and conspiracy to bypass the sanctions imposed by Washington on Iran.

Meng is currently out on bail but is forbidden to leave her mansion in Vancouver and will have to appear on March 6 before the Supreme Court of British Columbia for the beginning of the extradition process.

This decision threatens to aggravate a serious diplomatic crisis between Canada and China, following Meng's arrest last December.

China had retaliated by arresting two Canadians, a diplomat Michael Kovrig and a businessman Michael Spavor, over charges of endangering China's national security.

Both remain in prison, with restricted access to Canadian diplomatic representatives as well as their lawyers.

The Chinese Embassy in Canada also commented on the Canadian Justice's decision, describing the situation as political persecution of a high-tech Chinese company.

"If Canada really abides by the principle of rule of law and judiciary independence, the Canadian side should refuse the extradition request of the United States and immediately release Ms Meng Wanzhou," said an embassy spokesperson.

The way in which the Canadian court will "handle this case will be a touchstone for testing whether Canada adheres to judicial independence or not. We will wait and see," concluded the spokesperson.

China on Saturday asked the Canadian government to stop the process of extraditing Meng Wanzhou, the CFO of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei, to the United States.

China on Saturday asked the Canadian government to stop the process of extraditing Meng Wanzhou, the CFO of Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei, to the United States. "The US and Canada abuse of their extradition rules is a severe violation of the legitimate rights of a Chinese citizen," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lu Kang. The Canadian Department of Justice on Friday had authorized the formal process to begin the extradition of Meng, daughter of the founder of Huawei, who was arrested on December 1 in the Canadian city of Vancouver, while she was on her way to Mexico. "This is a serious political event. We once again urge the US to immediately withdraw the arrest warrant and extradition request for Meng Wanzhou," said Lu, adding that the two countries should immediately release Meng and allow her a safe passage to China. In January, the US Department of Justice had accused Meng, Huawei, and two affiliated companies, of 13 counts of fraud and conspiracy to bypass the sanctions imposed by Washington on Iran. Meng is currently out on bail but is forbidden to leave her mansion in Vancouver and will have to appear on March 6 before the Supreme Court of British Columbia for the beginning of the extradition process. This decision threatens to aggravate a serious diplomatic crisis between Canada and China, following Meng's arrest last December. China had retaliated by arresting two Canadians, a diplomat Michael Kovrig and a businessman Michael Spavor, over charges of endangering China's national security. Both remain in prison, with restricted access to Canadian diplomatic representatives as well as their lawyers. The Chinese Embassy in Canada also commented on the Canadian Justice's decision, describing the situation as political persecution of a high-tech Chinese company. "If Canada really abides by the principle of rule of law and judiciary independence, the Canadian side should refuse the extradition request of the United States and immediately release Ms Meng Wanzhou," said an embassy spokesperson. The way in which the Canadian court will "handle this case will be a touchstone for testing whether Canada adheres to judicial independence or not. We will wait and see," concluded the spokesperson.

China asks Canada to stop extradition of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou to US

China's foreign ministry grabbed a chance to question the state of<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-no-evidence-of-backdoor-spying-in-5g-technology-huawei-chairman-199966"> judicial independence in Canada </a>on Friday, as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government faced accusations at home that it had tried to intervene to stop a corruption trial.

Trudeau's domestic troubles have attracted attention in Chinese state media due to his previous assertion that his government cannot interfere in the case of a senior Huawei Technologies Co Ltd executive arrested in Canada and now fighting extradition to the United States.

China has repeatedly called for the release of Meng Wanzhou, the telecommunication giant's chief financial officer, arrested in Vancouver in December at Washington's request. In late January the US&nbsp;Justice Department charged Huawei and Meng with conspiring to violate US&nbsp;sanctions on Iran.

At a regular daily news briefing in Beijing, China's Foreign Ministry took the opportunity to take Canada to task over possible double standards, by commenting on a domestic Canadian political issue that does not otherwise involve China.

Trudeau has disputed allegations by his former justice minister that government officials inappropriately pressured her to help the SNC-Lavalin construction firm avoid a corruption trial.

Asked by a state media journalist if it was contradictory for Trudeau to say he couldn't interfere in Meng's case and yet his government be accused of trying to intervene in the SNC-Lavalin case, foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said he "really liked this question".

"Of course I think that this is a question that should be asked of the Canadian government," Lu said.

"In fact on this case you have mentioned, people in Canada are paying it a great deal of attention," he added. "In fact, not only Chinese and Canadian citizens, but the whole world are extremely interested to hear how the Canadian government answers this question."

Both Meng and Huawei have denied the US&nbsp;allegations.

China's foreign ministry grabbed a chance to question the state of judicial independence in Canada on Friday, as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government faced accusations at home that it had tried to intervene to stop a corruption trial.

China's foreign ministry grabbed a chance to question the state of judicial independence in Canada on Friday, as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government faced accusations at home that it had tried to intervene to stop a corruption trial. Trudeau's domestic troubles have attracted attention in Chinese state media due to his previous assertion that his government cannot interfere in the case of a senior Huawei Technologies Co Ltd executive arrested in Canada and now fighting extradition to the United States. China has repeatedly called for the release of Meng Wanzhou, the telecommunication giant's chief financial officer, arrested in Vancouver in December at Washington's request. In late January the US Justice Department charged Huawei and Meng with conspiring to violate US sanctions on Iran. At a regular daily news briefing in Beijing, China's Foreign Ministry took the opportunity to take Canada to task over possible double standards, by commenting on a domestic Canadian political issue that does not otherwise involve China. Trudeau has disputed allegations by his former justice minister that government officials inappropriately pressured her to help the SNC-Lavalin construction firm avoid a corruption trial. Asked by a state media journalist if it was contradictory for Trudeau to say he couldn't interfere in Meng's case and yet his government be accused of trying to intervene in the SNC-Lavalin case, foreign ministry spokesman Lu Kang said he "really liked this question". "Of course I think that this is a question that should be asked of the Canadian government," Lu said. "In fact on this case you have mentioned, people in Canada are paying it a great deal of attention," he added. "In fact, not only Chinese and Canadian citizens, but the whole world are extremely interested to hear how the Canadian government answers this question." Both Meng and Huawei have denied the US allegations.

Huawei row: China questions state of judicial independence in Canada

The founder of Chinese telecom giant Huawei has hit back at US efforts to blacklist the company, saying defiantly that the world cannot do without Huawei and its "more advanced" technology.

"<a href="http://www.wionews.com/americas/united-states-formally-charges-chinas-huawei-with-bank-fraud-stealing-trade-secrets-193545">There's no way the US can crush us</a>," Ren Zhengfei said in an interview with the BBC.&nbsp;

"The world cannot leave us because we are more advanced."

Ren, 74, also denounced as "politically motivated" the December arrest of his daughter, Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou, who is accused of violating US sanctions against Iran.

"We object to this," he said.&nbsp;

"But now that we've gone down this path, we'll let the courts settle it."

The normally media-shy Huawei founder has been forced to step into the limelight in recent months as the company has come under increasing pressure over espionage concerns and the US-led campaign to persuade other countries to ban its technology.

Last year, security concerns prompted Australia to ban Huawei equipment from its future 5G network.

New Zealand has also blocked its largest telecom carrier from using Huawei technology for the next generation network, while the Czech Republic has reportedly excluded it from a 20-million-euro ($22 million) tender to build a tax portal.

US prosecutors also are charging Huawei with stealing trade secrets, saying it offered rewards to employees for stealing technology from other rivals.

Ren shrugged off the growing pressure.

"If the lights go out in the West, the East will still shine," he said. "America doesn't represent the world."

"Even if they persuade more countries not to use us temporarily, we can always downsize and become smaller."

The founder of Chinese telecom giant Huawei has hit back at US efforts to blacklist the company, saying defiantly that the world cannot do without Huawei and its "more advanced" technology.

The founder of Chinese telecom giant Huawei has hit back at US efforts to blacklist the company, saying defiantly that the world cannot do without Huawei and its "more advanced" technology. "There's no way the US can crush us," Ren Zhengfei said in an interview with the BBC. "The world cannot leave us because we are more advanced." Ren, 74, also denounced as "politically motivated" the December arrest of his daughter, Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou, who is accused of violating US sanctions against Iran. "We object to this," he said. "But now that we've gone down this path, we'll let the courts settle it." The normally media-shy Huawei founder has been forced to step into the limelight in recent months as the company has come under increasing pressure over espionage concerns and the US-led campaign to persuade other countries to ban its technology. Last year, security concerns prompted Australia to ban Huawei equipment from its future 5G network. New Zealand has also blocked its largest telecom carrier from using Huawei technology for the next generation network, while the Czech Republic has reportedly excluded it from a 20-million-euro ($22 million) tender to build a tax portal. US prosecutors also are charging Huawei with stealing trade secrets, saying it offered rewards to employees for stealing technology from other rivals. Ren shrugged off the growing pressure. "If the lights go out in the West, the East will still shine," he said. "America doesn't represent the world." "Even if they persuade more countries not to use us temporarily, we can always downsize and become smaller."

There's no way the US can crush us: Huawei founder Ren Zhengfei

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/italy-to-ban-huawei-from-its-5g-plans-report-195806">Chinese</a> and Russian influence.

Pompeo was particularly insistent on Hungry not allowing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-tells-canada-to-free-huawei-cfo-or-face-consequences-182513">Chinese telecom giant Huawei </a>access to 5G network.

"If that equipment is co-located where we have important American systems, it makes it more difficult for us to partner alongside them," Pompeo said.

"We want to make sure we identify (to) them the opportunities and the risks with using that equipment. And then they will get to make their decisions," he added.

Pompeo had dinner with Hungarian PM Viktor Orban as the two leaders agreed to further ties.

"We must not let Putin drive wedges between friends in NATO," Pompeo said, adding, "An authoritarian Russia will never be a friend to the freedom and sovereignty of smaller nations."

Pompeo said the United States had earlier pushed Hungary into the arms of "folks who didn't share our values" and vowed to "compete for positive influence in the region".

Pompeo announced plans for a defence cooperation agreement with Hungary but added that he had discussed "the dangers of allowing China to gain a bridgehead in Hungary" during his talks with foreign minister Peter Szijjarto.

Hungry is Russia's biggest ally in eastern Europe with the country dependent on its energy needs on the Putin regime but has indicated its interest to join hands with the Trump administration.

"When it comes to cooperation with Russia or cooperation with the People's Republic of China that does not harm us being reliable as a NATO ally," Hungry's foreign minister said.

Pompeo is on a visit to various countries including Poland and the Middle East

"Hungary's government and President Donald Trump's administration represent an identical, or very similar, approaches in both general political and numerous international political issues," he added.

Pompeo is on a visit to various countries including Poland and the Middle East to engage with the government as the Trump administration seeks to further ties with countries.

In Poland, the government is considering banning Huawei from participating in the development of 5G capabilities after arresting a Chinese employee of Huawei and a former Polish security official on spying.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against Chinese and Russian influence. Pompeo was particularly insistent on Hungry not allowing Chinese telecom giant Huawei access to 5G network.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo during his visit to Hungary cautioned the government against Chinese and Russian influence. Pompeo was particularly insistent on Hungry not allowing Chinese telecom giant Huawei access to 5G network. "If that equipment is co-located where we have important American systems, it makes it more difficult for us to partner alongside them," Pompeo said. "We want to make sure we identify (to) them the opportunities and the risks with using that equipment. And then they will get to make their decisions," he added. Pompeo had dinner with Hungarian PM Viktor Orban as the two leaders agreed to further ties. "We must not let Putin drive wedges between friends in NATO," Pompeo said, adding, "An authoritarian Russia will never be a friend to the freedom and sovereignty of smaller nations." Pompeo said the United States had earlier pushed Hungary into the arms of "folks who didn't share our values" and vowed to "compete for positive influence in the region". Pompeo announced plans for a defence cooperation agreement with Hungary but added that he had discussed "the dangers of allowing China to gain a bridgehead in Hungary" during his talks with foreign minister Peter Szijjarto. Hungry is Russia's biggest ally in eastern Europe with the country dependent on its energy needs on the Putin regime but has indicated its interest to join hands with the Trump administration. "When it comes to cooperation with Russia or cooperation with the People's Republic of China that does not harm us being reliable as a NATO ally," Hungry's foreign minister said. Pompeo is on a visit to various countries including Poland and the Middle East "Hungary's government and President Donald Trump's administration represent an identical, or very similar, approaches in both general political and numerous international political issues," he added. Pompeo is on a visit to various countries including Poland and the Middle East to engage with the government as the Trump administration seeks to further ties with countries. In Poland, the government is considering banning Huawei from participating in the development of 5G capabilities after arresting a Chinese employee of Huawei and a former Polish security official on spying.

If Huawei is co-located with American systems, it would be difficult for us to partner: Pompeo to Hungary

Huawei executive <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-pursue-extradition-of-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-confirms-us-justice-department-192267">Meng Wanzhou</a>, who was arrested in Canada and faces possible extradition to the United States, is exploring a defence that claims US&nbsp;charges against her are politically motivated, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Monday.

Meng, the chief financial officer of China's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/european-telecoms-dilemma-huawei-or-the-highway-194704">Huawei Technologies</a> Co Ltd, is the central figure in a high-stakes dispute between the United States and China. Canada arrested Meng in December at the request of the United States and last month she was charged with wire fraud that violated US&nbsp;sanctions on Iran.

"The political overlay of this case is remarkable," Richard Peck, lead counsel for Meng, told the Toronto newspaper in a telephone interview.

"That's probably the one thing that sets it apart from any other extradition case I've ever seen. It's got this cloud of politicization hanging over it," Peck added.

The office of Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti said it could not speculate on Meng's possible defences.

"We are committed to a fair process unfolding before the courts and the steps undertaken by the Department of Justice Canada on this case have followed due process, in accordance with the Extradition Act, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and our Treaty with the United States," a spokeswoman for Canada's Department of Justice said in an e-mailed statement.

Peck's office did not respond to a request for comment. A Huawei spokesman declined to comment.

In December, US President Donald Trump said in a Reuters interview he would intervene in the Justice Department's case against Meng if it would serve national security interests or help close a trade deal with China.

Canada fired John McCallum, its ambassador to China, in January after he said Meng could make a strong argument against being sent to the United States.

"He [Mr McCallum] mentions some of the potential defences - and certainly, I think any person that knows this area would see the potential for those defences arising," Peck told the Globe and Mail.

Meng's lawyers are also planning to challenge whether her alleged conduct would be deemed criminal under Canadian law, the Globe and Mail said.

Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, who was arrested in Canada and faces possible extradition to the United States, is exploring a defence that claims US charges against her are politically motivated, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Monday.

Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou, who was arrested in Canada and faces possible extradition to the United States, is exploring a defence that claims US charges against her are politically motivated, the Globe and Mail newspaper reported on Monday. Meng, the chief financial officer of China's Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, is the central figure in a high-stakes dispute between the United States and China. Canada arrested Meng in December at the request of the United States and last month she was charged with wire fraud that violated US sanctions on Iran. "The political overlay of this case is remarkable," Richard Peck, lead counsel for Meng, told the Toronto newspaper in a telephone interview. "That's probably the one thing that sets it apart from any other extradition case I've ever seen. It's got this cloud of politicization hanging over it," Peck added. The office of Canadian Justice Minister David Lametti said it could not speculate on Meng's possible defences. "We are committed to a fair process unfolding before the courts and the steps undertaken by the Department of Justice Canada on this case have followed due process, in accordance with the Extradition Act, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and our Treaty with the United States," a spokeswoman for Canada's Department of Justice said in an e-mailed statement. Peck's office did not respond to a request for comment. A Huawei spokesman declined to comment. In December, US President Donald Trump said in a Reuters interview he would intervene in the Justice Department's case against Meng if it would serve national security interests or help close a trade deal with China. Canada fired John McCallum, its ambassador to China, in January after he said Meng could make a strong argument against being sent to the United States. "He [Mr McCallum] mentions some of the potential defences - and certainly, I think any person that knows this area would see the potential for those defences arising," Peck told the Globe and Mail. Meng's lawyers are also planning to challenge whether her alleged conduct would be deemed criminal under Canadian law, the Globe and Mail said.

Huawei CFO Wanzhou may fight extradition by claiming US political motive: Report

China on Tuesday accused the United States of "political motivations" behind sweeping charges against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trudeau-sacks-canadian-ambassador-to-china-after-huawei-controversy-193039">Chinese telecom giant Huawei</a> in a case that has ratcheted up tensions between the two superpowers.

The Justice Department Monday unveiled 13 charges against <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/prince-charless-charity-to-stop-taking-huawei-donations-192509">Huawei Technologies, its chief financial </a>officer Meng Wanzhou - the daughter of the company's founder - and two affiliates related to violating US sanctions on Iran.

The firm was also accused of technology theft on the same day China's top trade negotiator arrived in Washington for high-stakes talks with US officials, possibly complicating the discussions ahead of a March deadline to avert a deepening of their trade war.

Canada has been dragged into the dispute since it arrested Meng at the behest of the United States last month, sparking a diplomatic crisis between Ottawa and Beijing, which renewed calls for her release and for the US to drop its warrant against her.

China's foreign ministry said there were "strong political motivations and political manipulations" behind the charges.

"For some time, the US has used state power to smear and suppress specific Chinese companies in an attempt to stifle their legitimate business activities," ministry spokesman Geng Shaung said at a regular briefing.

"We strongly urge the US to stop the unreasonable suppression of Chinese companies including Huawei and to treat them fairly and objectively. China will also resolutely defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises."

The twin indictments are the latest setback for the company, with its equipment having been barred from domestic networks in the United States, Australia and New Zealand amid security fears.

In addition to fraud charges linked to Iran sanctions violations against Meng and the company, two Huawei affiliates were charged with stealing robot technology from T-Mobile.

"Both sets of charges expose Huawei's brazen and persistent actions to exploit American companies and financial institutions, and to threaten the free and fair global marketplace," said FBI director Christopher Wray.

Acting US Attorney General Matthew Whitaker said there was nothing in the indictment that alleged Chinese government involvement in either case.

However, he added, "As I told Chinese officials in August, China must hold its citizens and Chinese companies accountable for complying with the law."

In a statement sent to AFP, Huawei said it was "disappointed" and denied that it committed any of the allegations.&nbsp;

It added that it was "not aware of any wrongdoing by Ms Meng (Wanzhou), and believes the US courts will ultimately reach the same conclusion."

The United States have filed a formal extradition request for Meng, according to Canadian broadcaster CBC, and she faces a court hearing on February 6.

Nine days after her arrest in Vancouver on December 1, Chinese authorities detained two Canadians in what is seen as an act of retaliation to pressure Ottawa.

The charges against Meng, filed in federal court in New York, allege that between 2007 and 2017 she, Huawei and the subsidiaries sought to mask their business with Iran in violation of US and UN sanctions on the country.

Meng in particular "repeatedly lied" to bankers about the relationships between the companies, especially with Skycom, a Huawei affiliate in Iran, according to the charges.

That violated US laws, the Justice Department said, because the Iran business involved US-dollar transactions processed by banks through the United States.

Huawei and the affiliates also lied to US authorities, obstructing the investigation, they said.

The indictment also mentions that Huawei's founder -- Ren Zhengfei, a former People's Liberation Army engineer identified only as "Individual-1" in the court documents -- had "falsely stated" that the company had "not dealt directly with any Iranian company" in an interview with FBI in July 2007.

Ren, however, has not been charged.

The second case charged that Huawei made a concerted effort to steal technology related to a phone-testing robot dubbed Tappy from a T-Mobile USA lab in Washington state.&nbsp;

Engineers of Huawei -- which was supplying T-Mobile with phones -- took pictures and made measurements of parts of the robot, "even stealing a piece of it," said Whitaker.

The Justice Department charged that the Chinese company had, in July 2013, offered bonuses to employees "based on the value of information they stole from other companies around the world, and provided to Huawei via an encrypted email address."&nbsp;

The indictments came as Chinese Vice Premier Liu He arrived in Washington on Monday to lead trade talks this week.

Speaking together with Justice Department officials announcing the indictments, US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said they were "wholly separate from our trade negotiations with China."

However, he added: "Commerce will continue to work with our interagency partners to protect US national security interests."

China on Tuesday accused the United States of "political motivations" behind sweeping charges against Chinese telecom giant Huawei in a case that has ratcheted up tensions between the two superpowers.

China on Tuesday accused the United States of "political motivations" behind sweeping charges against Chinese telecom giant Huawei in a case that has ratcheted up tensions between the two superpowers. The Justice Department Monday unveiled 13 charges against Huawei Technologies, its chief financial officer Meng Wanzhou - the daughter of the company's founder - and two affiliates related to violating US sanctions on Iran. The firm was also accused of technology theft on the same day China's top trade negotiator arrived in Washington for high-stakes talks with US officials, possibly complicating the discussions ahead of a March deadline to avert a deepening of their trade war. Canada has been dragged into the dispute since it arrested Meng at the behest of the United States last month, sparking a diplomatic crisis between Ottawa and Beijing, which renewed calls for her release and for the US to drop its warrant against her. China's foreign ministry said there were "strong political motivations and political manipulations" behind the charges. "For some time, the US has used state power to smear and suppress specific Chinese companies in an attempt to stifle their legitimate business activities," ministry spokesman Geng Shaung said at a regular briefing. "We strongly urge the US to stop the unreasonable suppression of Chinese companies including Huawei and to treat them fairly and objectively. China will also resolutely defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises." The twin indictments are the latest setback for the company, with its equipment having been barred from domestic networks in the United States, Australia and New Zealand amid security fears. In addition to fraud charges linked to Iran sanctions violations against Meng and the company, two Huawei affiliates were charged with stealing robot technology from T-Mobile. "Both sets of charges expose Huawei's brazen and persistent actions to exploit American companies and financial institutions, and to threaten the free and fair global marketplace," said FBI director Christopher Wray. Acting US Attorney General Matthew Whitaker said there was nothing in the indictment that alleged Chinese government involvement in either case. However, he added, "As I told Chinese officials in August, China must hold its citizens and Chinese companies accountable for complying with the law." In a statement sent to AFP, Huawei said it was "disappointed" and denied that it committed any of the allegations. It added that it was "not aware of any wrongdoing by Ms Meng (Wanzhou), and believes the US courts will ultimately reach the same conclusion." The United States have filed a formal extradition request for Meng, according to Canadian broadcaster CBC, and she faces a court hearing on February 6. Nine days after her arrest in Vancouver on December 1, Chinese authorities detained two Canadians in what is seen as an act of retaliation to pressure Ottawa. The charges against Meng, filed in federal court in New York, allege that between 2007 and 2017 she, Huawei and the subsidiaries sought to mask their business with Iran in violation of US and UN sanctions on the country. Meng in particular "repeatedly lied" to bankers about the relationships between the companies, especially with Skycom, a Huawei affiliate in Iran, according to the charges. That violated US laws, the Justice Department said, because the Iran business involved US-dollar transactions processed by banks through the United States. Huawei and the affiliates also lied to US authorities, obstructing the investigation, they said. The indictment also mentions that Huawei's founder -- Ren Zhengfei, a former People's Liberation Army engineer identified only as "Individual-1" in the court documents -- had "falsely stated" that the company had "not dealt directly with any Iranian company" in an interview with FBI in July 2007. Ren, however, has not been charged. The second case charged that Huawei made a concerted effort to steal technology related to a phone-testing robot dubbed Tappy from a T-Mobile USA lab in Washington state. Engineers of Huawei -- which was supplying T-Mobile with phones -- took pictures and made measurements of parts of the robot, "even stealing a piece of it," said Whitaker. The Justice Department charged that the Chinese company had, in July 2013, offered bonuses to employees "based on the value of information they stole from other companies around the world, and provided to Huawei via an encrypted email address." The indictments came as Chinese Vice Premier Liu He arrived in Washington on Monday to lead trade talks this week. Speaking together with Justice Department officials announcing the indictments, US Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross said they were "wholly separate from our trade negotiations with China." However, he added: "Commerce will continue to work with our interagency partners to protect US national security interests."

US should stop unreasonable suppression of Huawei: China

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday said he had sought and accepted the resignation of Ottawa's ambassador to China, days after the diplomat sparked controversy with criticism of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-tells-canada-to-free-huawei-cfo-or-face-consequences-182513">US extradition request for a top Huawei executive</a>.

"Last night I asked for and accepted John McCallum's resignation as Canada's Ambassador to China," Trudeau said in a statement that did not explain why the decision had been taken.

McCallum has been making headlines in recent days over comments regarding Meng Wanzhou, Chinese giant Huawei's chief financial officer who was arrested in Vancouver on December 1 and is facing extradition to the United States.

Accused of fraud linked to violations of American sanctions on Iran, she is out on bail, but her arrest has sparked an escalating diplomatic crisis between Ottawa and Beijing.

McCallum briefed lawmakers Tuesday on the plight of two Canadians detained in China and a third placed on death row in what are widely seen as retaliatory moves by Beijing.

After the briefing he told Chinese-language media in Markham, Ontario that he believed the US extradition request was seriously flawed.

He cited political comments on the case by US President Donald Trump, the "extraterritorial aspect" of Meng's case and the fact that Canada did not sign on to the Iran sanctions that Washington wants her extradited for.

McCallum's remarks were immediately panned by opposition parties and others for seeming to undercut the strict hands-off approach to judicial matters touted by the Canadian government.

The following day he issued a statement saying that he "misspoke," and "regrets" that his comments "have created confusion."

But on Friday, McCallum told The Vancouver Star that it would be "great for Canada" if the US dropped its extradition request.

"From Canada's point of view, if (the US) drops the extradition request, that would be great for Canada," he told the newspaper at a charity function.

"We have to make sure that if the US does such a deal, it also includes the release of our two people. And the US is highly aware of that," he said.

Trudeau's statement hailed McCallum's almost two decades of public service, which it said he carried out "honorably and with distinction."

McCallum previously held a number of cabinet posts, including defense minister, minister of veteran affairs and immigration minister.

The statement added that, effective immediately, McCallum's deputy Jim Nickel would represent Canada in Beijing as its charge d'affaires.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday said he had sought and accepted the resignation of Ottawa's ambassador to China, days after the diplomat sparked controversy with criticism of the US extradition request for a top Huawei executive.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Saturday said he had sought and accepted the resignation of Ottawa's ambassador to China, days after the diplomat sparked controversy with criticism of the US extradition request for a top Huawei executive. "Last night I asked for and accepted John McCallum's resignation as Canada's Ambassador to China," Trudeau said in a statement that did not explain why the decision had been taken. McCallum has been making headlines in recent days over comments regarding Meng Wanzhou, Chinese giant Huawei's chief financial officer who was arrested in Vancouver on December 1 and is facing extradition to the United States. Accused of fraud linked to violations of American sanctions on Iran, she is out on bail, but her arrest has sparked an escalating diplomatic crisis between Ottawa and Beijing. McCallum briefed lawmakers Tuesday on the plight of two Canadians detained in China and a third placed on death row in what are widely seen as retaliatory moves by Beijing. After the briefing he told Chinese-language media in Markham, Ontario that he believed the US extradition request was seriously flawed. He cited political comments on the case by US President Donald Trump, the "extraterritorial aspect" of Meng's case and the fact that Canada did not sign on to the Iran sanctions that Washington wants her extradited for. McCallum's remarks were immediately panned by opposition parties and others for seeming to undercut the strict hands-off approach to judicial matters touted by the Canadian government. The following day he issued a statement saying that he "misspoke," and "regrets" that his comments "have created confusion." But on Friday, McCallum told The Vancouver Star that it would be "great for Canada" if the US dropped its extradition request. "From Canada's point of view, if (the US) drops the extradition request, that would be great for Canada," he told the newspaper at a charity function. "We have to make sure that if the US does such a deal, it also includes the release of our two people. And the US is highly aware of that," he said. Trudeau's statement hailed McCallum's almost two decades of public service, which it said he carried out "honorably and with distinction." McCallum previously held a number of cabinet posts, including defense minister, minister of veteran affairs and immigration minister. The statement added that, effective immediately, McCallum's deputy Jim Nickel would represent Canada in Beijing as its charge d'affaires.

Huawei CFO extradition: Trudeau sacks Canadian ambassador to China

The US government today confirmed that it would be seeking extradition of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-tells-canada-to-free-huawei-cfo-or-face-consequences-182513">Huawei's top executive Meng Wanzhou</a> who is hauled up in Canada over charges of misleading multinational banks about Iran-linked transactions thereby working against US sanctions.

"We will continue to pursue the extradition of defendant Ms. Meng Wanzhou, and will meet all deadlines set by the US/Canada Extradition Treaty," said Justice Department spokesperson Marc Raimondi.

As Meng's extradition looms, Canadian ambassador<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/strongly-urge-us-to-immediately-drop-extradition-request-for-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-china-192033"> to China John Mccallum</a> said she&nbsp;had a good defence case.&nbsp;

"One, political involvement by comments from Donald Trump in her case. Two, there's an extraterritorial aspect to her case, and three, there's the issue of Iran sanctions which are involved in her case, and Canada does not sign on to these Iran sanctions," &nbsp;Mccallum said, adding,"So I think she has some strong arguments that she can make before a judge."

Meng, 46, was released on bail last month but she continues to be under surveillance and is barred from leaving Canada.&nbsp;

China meanwhile has once sprung to her defence, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hua Chunying said the US should drop &nbsp;extradition request to Canada since it was a "serious mistake" and violated &nbsp;Chinese citizen's safety and legitimate rights and interests."

Canadian law allows 60 days for the US to make extradition request for Meng Wanzhou and January 30th is the deadline. David MacNaughton, Canadian ambassador to the United States, said the United States has told Canada it will extradite Meng, but American authorities have yet to formally make that request.

Relations between Canada and China have nosedived since Meng's arrest with Chinese authorities detaining two Canadian nationals - &nbsp;Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor - amid growing tensions.

A China Daily newspaper had said Canada "could lose the trust and cooperation of most developing countries" over the matter.

The US government today confirmed that it would be seeking extradition of Huawei's top executive Meng Wanzhou who is hauled up in Canada over charges of misleading multinational banks about Iran-linked transactions thereby working against US sanctions.

The US government today confirmed that it would be seeking extradition of Huawei's top executive Meng Wanzhou who is hauled up in Canada over charges of misleading multinational banks about Iran-linked transactions thereby working against US sanctions. "We will continue to pursue the extradition of defendant Ms. Meng Wanzhou, and will meet all deadlines set by the US/Canada Extradition Treaty," said Justice Department spokesperson Marc Raimondi. As Meng's extradition looms, Canadian ambassador to China John Mccallum said she had a good defence case. "One, political involvement by comments from Donald Trump in her case. Two, there's an extraterritorial aspect to her case, and three, there's the issue of Iran sanctions which are involved in her case, and Canada does not sign on to these Iran sanctions," Mccallum said, adding,"So I think she has some strong arguments that she can make before a judge." Meng, 46, was released on bail last month but she continues to be under surveillance and is barred from leaving Canada. China meanwhile has once sprung to her defence, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hua Chunying said the US should drop extradition request to Canada since it was a "serious mistake" and violated Chinese citizen's safety and legitimate rights and interests." Canadian law allows 60 days for the US to make extradition request for Meng Wanzhou and January 30th is the deadline. David MacNaughton, Canadian ambassador to the United States, said the United States has told Canada it will extradite Meng, but American authorities have yet to formally make that request. Relations between Canada and China have nosedived since Meng's arrest with Chinese authorities detaining two Canadian nationals - Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor - amid growing tensions. A China Daily newspaper had said Canada "could lose the trust and cooperation of most developing countries" over the matter.

Will pursue extradition of Huawei's Meng Wanzhou, confirms US justice department

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/strongly-urge-us-to-immediately-drop-extradition-request-for-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-china-192033">Strongly urge US to immediately drop extradition request for Huawei's Meng Wanzhou: China</a>

After reports emerged that the US may formally extradite Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou from Canada, the Chinese foreign ministry said it is an abuse of extradition treaties between the United States and Canada and a serious violation of Chinese citizen's safety and legitimate rights and interests.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/20-may-have-died-after-fire-engulfs-two-ships-near-crimea-indian-nationals-also-affected-192010">20 may have died after fire engulfs two ships near Crimea; Indian nationals also affected</a>

Up to 20 people were presumed dead off Russia-annexed Crimea in the Black Sea after a fire engulfed two ships sailing under the Tanzanian flag, authorities said Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-collected-162-billion-in-unpaid-taxes-from-celebrities-entertainment-companies-report-191993">China collected $1.62 billion in unpaid taxes from celebrities &amp; entertainment companies: Report</a>

Chinese authorities have collected more than $1.62 billion in unpaid taxes from celebrities and entertainment companies since they hit the industry with a crackdown, state media Xinhua reported on Tuesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-hands-overs-31-rohingyas-to-tripura-police-ending-standoff-with-bangladesh-191999">BSF hands overs 31 Rohingyas to Tripura police ending standoff</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bsf-hands-overs-31-rohingyas-to-tripura-police-ending-standoff-with-bangladesh-191999"> with Bangladesh</a>

The Border Security Force Tuesday handed over the 31 Rohingya Muslims, who were stranded on the India-Bangladesh border for three days, to the Tripura police, ending a standoff with its counterpart, the BGB, on the issue, officials said.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-japan-pm-shinzo-abe-hold-summit-to-break-island-impasse-192038">Russian President Putin, Japan PM Shinzo Abe hold </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-japan-pm-shinzo-abe-hold-summit-to-break-island-impasse-192038">summit</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russian-president-putin-japan-pm-shinzo-abe-hold-summit-to-break-island-impasse-192038"> to break island impasse</a>

The leaders of Russia and Japan were meeting in Moscow Tuesday for talks over a disputed island chain that has long prevented agreement on a peace treaty to formally end World War II.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strongly urge US to immediately drop extradition request for Huawei's Meng Wanzhou: China After reports emerged that the US may formally extradite Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou from Canada, the Chinese foreign ministry said it is an abuse of extradition treaties between the United States and Canada and a serious violation of Chinese citizen's safety and legitimate rights and interests.

Strongly urge US to immediately drop extradition request for Huawei's Meng Wanzhou: China After reports emerged that the US may formally extradite Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou from Canada, the Chinese foreign ministry said it is an abuse of extradition treaties between the United States and Canada and a serious violation of Chinese citizen's safety and legitimate rights and interests. 20 may have died after fire engulfs two ships near Crimea; Indian nationals also affected Up to 20 people were presumed dead off Russia-annexed Crimea in the Black Sea after a fire engulfed two ships sailing under the Tanzanian flag, authorities said Tuesday. China collected $1.62 billion in unpaid taxes from celebrities & entertainment companies: Report Chinese authorities have collected more than $1.62 billion in unpaid taxes from celebrities and entertainment companies since they hit the industry with a crackdown, state media Xinhua reported on Tuesday. BSF hands overs 31 Rohingyas to Tripura police ending standoff with Bangladesh The Border Security Force Tuesday handed over the 31 Rohingya Muslims, who were stranded on the India-Bangladesh border for three days, to the Tripura police, ending a standoff with its counterpart, the BGB, on the issue, officials said. Russian President Putin, Japan PM Shinzo Abe hold summit to break island impasse The leaders of Russia and Japan were meeting in Moscow Tuesday for talks over a disputed island chain that has long prevented agreement on a peace treaty to formally end World War II.

Over hundreds of academics, former diplomats and activists have written an open letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping calling for the release of two Canadians arrested on national security grounds, news agency AFP reported on Tuesday.

The tension between<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-detained-canadian-lacks-diplomatic-immunity-190233"> China and Canada</a> intensified recently after the authorities arrested Huawei Chief Financial Officer, Meng Wanzhou at Vancouver airport for allegedly violating Iran sanctions imposed by the US.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-government-banning-huawei-5g-network-will-have-repercussions-china-191217">Canadian government banning Huawei 5G network will have repercussions, says China</a>

Following the CFO's arrest, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor on December 10.&nbsp;

They were arrested for endangering "China's national security".&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/strongly-urge-us-to-immediately-drop-extradition-request-for-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-china-192033">Strongly urge </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/strongly-urge-us-to-immediately-drop-extradition-request-for-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-china-192033">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/strongly-urge-us-to-immediately-drop-extradition-request-for-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-china-192033"> to immediately drop extradition request for Huawei's Meng Wanzhou, says China</a>

Contradicting with China's claims, the letter written in English and Chinese, said that both Kovrig and Spavor worked to improve understanding between China and Canada and promoted better relations with the world.&nbsp;

"Kovrig and Savor's detentions send a message that this kind of constructive work is unwelcome and even risky in China," read the page-long letter, which had 143 signatories from 19 countries. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
According to the report, China, however, has reacted angrily to the letter.&nbsp;

AFP quoted foreign ministry spokesperson, Hua Chunying calling the letter "great disrespectful" to the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;She also said that it interferes with China's sovereignty and judicial process.

The missive was signed by six former Canadian ambassadors to China: Fred Bild, Joseph Caron, Earl Drake, David Mulroney, Guy Saint-Jacques and Robert Wright; former US ambassadors Gary Locke and Winston Lord; and Hong Kong's last British governor Chris Patten.

Former ambassadors to China from Germany, Mexico, Britain and Sweden also lent their names, along with many of the world's leading China academics, AFP reported.

The tension between Beijing and Ottawa also escalated quickly after a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/hostage-politics-death-sentence-heightens-china-canada-tensions-190522"> Chinese court sentenced a Canadian person to death </a>on drugs trafficking charges.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-formally-seek-extradition-of-huawei-executive-meng-wanzhou-globe-and-mail-191936">David MacNaughton,</a> in an interview with the Canadian newspaper published on Monday, said the US has told Canada it will request Meng's extradition, but he did not say when the request will be made. The deadline for filing is January 30, or 60 days after Meng was arrested on December 1 in Vancouver.

Meng, the daughter of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd founder Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at the request of the United States over alleged violations of US sanctions on Iran. She was released on bail last month and is due in court in Vancouver on February 6.

(With inputs from agencies)

Over hundreds of academics, former diplomats and activists have written an open letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping calling for the release of two Canadians arrested on national security grounds, news agency AFP reported on Tuesday.

Over hundreds of academics, former diplomats and activists have written an open letter to Chinese President Xi Jinping calling for the release of two Canadians arrested on national security grounds, news agency AFP reported on Tuesday. The tension between China and Canada intensified recently after the authorities arrested Huawei Chief Financial Officer, Meng Wanzhou at Vancouver airport for allegedly violating Iran sanctions imposed by the US. Also read: Canadian government banning Huawei 5G network will have repercussions, says China Following the CFO's arrest, China detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor on December 10. They were arrested for endangering "China's national security". Also read: Strongly urge US to immediately drop extradition request for Huawei's Meng Wanzhou, says China Contradicting with China's claims, the letter written in English and Chinese, said that both Kovrig and Spavor worked to improve understanding between China and Canada and promoted better relations with the world. "Kovrig and Savor's detentions send a message that this kind of constructive work is unwelcome and even risky in China," read the page-long letter, which had 143 signatories from 19 countries. According to the report, China, however, has reacted angrily to the letter. AFP quoted foreign ministry spokesperson, Hua Chunying calling the letter "great disrespectful" to the country. She also said that it interferes with China's sovereignty and judicial process. The missive was signed by six former Canadian ambassadors to China: Fred Bild, Joseph Caron, Earl Drake, David Mulroney, Guy Saint-Jacques and Robert Wright; former US ambassadors Gary Locke and Winston Lord; and Hong Kong's last British governor Chris Patten. Former ambassadors to China from Germany, Mexico, Britain and Sweden also lent their names, along with many of the world's leading China academics, AFP reported. The tension between Beijing and Ottawa also escalated quickly after a Chinese court sentenced a Canadian person to death on drugs trafficking charges. Meanwhile, David MacNaughton, in an interview with the Canadian newspaper published on Monday, said the US has told Canada it will request Meng's extradition, but he did not say when the request will be made. The deadline for filing is January 30, or 60 days after Meng was arrested on December 1 in Vancouver. Meng, the daughter of Huawei Technologies Co Ltd founder Ren Zhengfei, was arrested at the request of the United States over alleged violations of US sanctions on Iran. She was released on bail last month and is due in court in Vancouver on February 6. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Diplomats, scholars write open letter to President Xi Jinping urging release of detained Canadians in China

After reports emerged that the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-formally-seek-extradition-of-huawei-executive-meng-wanzhou-globe-and-mail-191936"> US may formally extradite Huawei executive</a> Meng Wanzhou from Canada, the Chinese foreign ministry said it is an abuse of extradition treaties between the United States and Canada and a serious violation of Chinese citizen's safety and legitimate rights and interests.

"China has strongly urged Canada to<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/executive-of-chinas-huawei-asks-for-bail-in-us-extradition-case-183236"> immediately release Ms Meng</a>, and earnestly guarantee her justified and legitimate rights," China's foreign ministry spokesman Hua Chunying said.

Meng, 46, who is the daughter of the founder Ren Zhengfei, was arrested and then released on bail last month by a Canadian court after the United States accused the Huawei top executive of misleading multinational banks about Iran-linked transactions thereby working against US sanctions.

Meng denied the charge as she was released subject to guarantee of $7.5 million and barred from leaving the country. The development angered Chinese authorities threatened&nbsp;severe consequences if Meng was extradited to the US.

Meng has been&nbsp;put under electronic surveillance in a luxury home in Vancouver awaiting action from the US administration.

"China has also strongly urged the United States to immediately correct its mistake, repeal its warrant of arrest for Meng Wanzhou and drop the extradition request to Canada," the foreign ministry spokesman said.

Meng was detained on December 1st as she was changing planes in Vancouver airport.

Relations between Canada and China have hit rock bottom ever since the Meng incident unfolded with Chinese authorities detaining ex-diplomat Michael Kovrig and China-based business consultant Michael Spavor for harming "national security".&nbsp;

As relations deteriorated, China announced death sentence for Canadian national Robert Schellenberg for smuggling methamphetamines even as Canada denounced the move.&nbsp;

After reports emerged that the US may formally extradite Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou from Canada, the Chinese foreign ministry said it is an abuse of extradition treaties between the United States and Canada and a serious violation of Chinese citizen's safety and legitimate rights and interests.

After reports emerged that the US may formally extradite Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou from Canada, the Chinese foreign ministry said it is an abuse of extradition treaties between the United States and Canada and a serious violation of Chinese citizen's safety and legitimate rights and interests. "China has strongly urged Canada to immediately release Ms Meng, and earnestly guarantee her justified and legitimate rights," China's foreign ministry spokesman Hua Chunying said. Meng, 46, who is the daughter of the founder Ren Zhengfei, was arrested and then released on bail last month by a Canadian court after the United States accused the Huawei top executive of misleading multinational banks about Iran-linked transactions thereby working against US sanctions. Meng denied the charge as she was released subject to guarantee of $7.5 million and barred from leaving the country. The development angered Chinese authorities threatened severe consequences if Meng was extradited to the US. Meng has been put under electronic surveillance in a luxury home in Vancouver awaiting action from the US administration. "China has also strongly urged the United States to immediately correct its mistake, repeal its warrant of arrest for Meng Wanzhou and drop the extradition request to Canada," the foreign ministry spokesman said. Meng was detained on December 1st as she was changing planes in Vancouver airport. Relations between Canada and China have hit rock bottom ever since the Meng incident unfolded with Chinese authorities detaining ex-diplomat Michael Kovrig and China-based business consultant Michael Spavor for harming "national security". As relations deteriorated, China announced death sentence for Canadian national Robert Schellenberg for smuggling methamphetamines even as Canada denounced the move.

Strongly urge US to immediately drop extradition request for Huawei's Meng Wanzhou: China

China's envoy to Canada warned&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-engaging-in-egotism-and-white-supremacy-over-huawei-vp-meng-chinese-ambassador-lu-shaye-189310">Ottawa there would be repercussions</a> if it banned technology firm Huawei Technologies Co Ltd from supplying equipment to Canadian 5G networks, the latest blast in a deepening bilateral dispute.

Ambassador Lu Shaye, speaking at a news conference, did not give details. <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-says-13-citizens-detained-in-china-since-huawei-cfo-arrest-188160">Canada is currently studying the security implications</a> of 5G networks, but unlike some allies has not announced Huawei equipment will be excluded.

"If the Canadian government does ban Huawei from participating in the 5G network, then as for what kind of repercussion there will be, I’m not sure, but I believe there will be repercussions," Lu said through an interpreter, urging Ottawa to "make a wise decision on this issue".

Relations between China and Canada turned frosty last month after Canadian authorities arrested Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Huawei, on a US extradition request.

China subsequently detained two Canadian citizens, and this month a court retried a Canadian man who previously had been found guilty of drug smuggling and sentenced him to death.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Beijing of arbitrarily using the death penalty and called world leaders to solicit their support.

Lu said when Canadian foreign minister Chrystia Freeland went to the World Economic Forum in Davos next week she should avoid "microphone diplomacy" and not try to rally support.

"If Canada has a sincerity of resolving these issues, then Canada will not do such things. We hope Canada thinks twice before making any actions," he said.

In response, Freeland said Canada had no intention of changing its approach.

"We will continue to speak every day with our allies about this situation," she told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet retreat in Sherbrooke, Quebec.

She declined to give details about the review into 5G technology. A Canadian source directly familiar with the case said the study would not be released in the immediate future.

Huawei has a relatively small Canadian operation, employing just shy of 1,000 people. But the company said early this year it had become the 25th largest research and development funder in Canada, thanks to partnerships with local universities.

On Wednesday, a bipartisan group of US lawmakers introduced bills that would ban the sale of US chips or other components to Huawei, ZTE Corp or other Chinese firms that violate US sanctions or export control laws.

China's envoy to Canada warned Ottawa there would be repercussions if it banned technology firm Huawei Technologies Co Ltd from supplying equipment to Canadian 5G networks, the latest blast in a deepening bilateral dispute.

China's envoy to Canada warned Ottawa there would be repercussions if it banned technology firm Huawei Technologies Co Ltd from supplying equipment to Canadian 5G networks, the latest blast in a deepening bilateral dispute. Ambassador Lu Shaye, speaking at a news conference, did not give details. Canada is currently studying the security implications of 5G networks, but unlike some allies has not announced Huawei equipment will be excluded. "If the Canadian government does ban Huawei from participating in the 5G network, then as for what kind of repercussion there will be, I’m not sure, but I believe there will be repercussions," Lu said through an interpreter, urging Ottawa to "make a wise decision on this issue". Relations between China and Canada turned frosty last month after Canadian authorities arrested Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Huawei, on a US extradition request. China subsequently detained two Canadian citizens, and this month a court retried a Canadian man who previously had been found guilty of drug smuggling and sentenced him to death. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Beijing of arbitrarily using the death penalty and called world leaders to solicit their support. Lu said when Canadian foreign minister Chrystia Freeland went to the World Economic Forum in Davos next week she should avoid "microphone diplomacy" and not try to rally support. "If Canada has a sincerity of resolving these issues, then Canada will not do such things. We hope Canada thinks twice before making any actions," he said. In response, Freeland said Canada had no intention of changing its approach. "We will continue to speak every day with our allies about this situation," she told reporters on the sidelines of a cabinet retreat in Sherbrooke, Quebec. She declined to give details about the review into 5G technology. A Canadian source directly familiar with the case said the study would not be released in the immediate future. Huawei has a relatively small Canadian operation, employing just shy of 1,000 people. But the company said early this year it had become the 25th largest research and development funder in Canada, thanks to partnerships with local universities. On Wednesday, a bipartisan group of US lawmakers introduced bills that would ban the sale of US chips or other components to Huawei, ZTE Corp or other Chinese firms that violate US sanctions or export control laws.

Canadian government banning Huawei 5G network will have repercussions: China

A day after Poland arrested<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/poland-arrests-chinese-employee-of-huawei-over-spying-allegations-189601"> Chinese employee of Huawei along with a Polish national over espionage allegations</a>, the telecom equipment maker&nbsp;terminated its employee saying that he had harmed the company's global reputation.

"This incident created harmful effects on Huawei's global reputation," news agency AFP quoted the company as saying.

Citing management rules in company contracts, Huawei said it "has decided to immediately terminate its employer relationship with Wang Weijing."

"Huawei has always abided by applicable laws and regulations of the country where it is located... and requires all employees to abide by the country's laws and regulations," it said.

Huawei, the world’s biggest producer of telecoms equipment, faces intense scrutiny in the West over its relationship with the Chinese government and US-led allegations that its equipment could be used by Beijing for spying.

Polish authorities on Friday arrested Wang Weijing and a former Polish security official on spying allegations, a move that could fuel Western security concerns about the telecoms equipment maker.

Reacting to the Weijing's arrest China had said that it was "highly concerned" by the arrest.&nbsp;

"We require relevant countries to handle relevant cases fairly and in accordance with the law, and earnestly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the person concerned," news agency AFP quoted Chinese foreign ministry as saying.

In December, Canadian authorities arrested a top Huawei executive, Meng Wanzhou, at the behest of US authorities as part of an investigation into alleged violations of US trade sanctions.

US intelligence agencies allege Huawei is linked to China's government and that its equipment could contain "back doors" for use by government spies. No evidence has been produced publicly and the firm has repeatedly denied the claims.

The US criticism has led to a number of Western countries and companies to review whether they should allow Huawei's equipment to be used in their telecoms networks.

(With inputs from news agencies) 
&nbsp;

A day after Poland arrested Chinese employee of Huawei along with a Polish national over espionage allegations, the telecom equipment maker terminated its employee saying that he had harmed the company's global reputation.

A day after Poland arrested Chinese employee of Huawei along with a Polish national over espionage allegations, the telecom equipment maker terminated its employee saying that he had harmed the company's global reputation. "This incident created harmful effects on Huawei's global reputation," news agency AFP quoted the company as saying. Citing management rules in company contracts, Huawei said it "has decided to immediately terminate its employer relationship with Wang Weijing." "Huawei has always abided by applicable laws and regulations of the country where it is located... and requires all employees to abide by the country's laws and regulations," it said. Huawei, the world’s biggest producer of telecoms equipment, faces intense scrutiny in the West over its relationship with the Chinese government and US-led allegations that its equipment could be used by Beijing for spying. Polish authorities on Friday arrested Wang Weijing and a former Polish security official on spying allegations, a move that could fuel Western security concerns about the telecoms equipment maker. Reacting to the Weijing's arrest China had said that it was "highly concerned" by the arrest. "We require relevant countries to handle relevant cases fairly and in accordance with the law, and earnestly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the person concerned," news agency AFP quoted Chinese foreign ministry as saying. In December, Canadian authorities arrested a top Huawei executive, Meng Wanzhou, at the behest of US authorities as part of an investigation into alleged violations of US trade sanctions. US intelligence agencies allege Huawei is linked to China's government and that its equipment could contain "back doors" for use by government spies. No evidence has been produced publicly and the firm has repeatedly denied the claims. The US criticism has led to a number of Western countries and companies to review whether they should allow Huawei's equipment to be used in their telecoms networks. (With inputs from news agencies)

Huawei sacks employee arrested in Poland over spying charges

Poland has arrested a Chinese employee of Huawei and a Polish national involved in cyber business on allegations of spying, Polish media reported on Friday, deepening the controversy over Western criticism of the Chinese telecoms equipment maker.

Polish public TV channel TVP said security services had also searched the local offices of Huawei Technologies Cos Ltd, as well as the offices of telecoms firm Orange Polska, where it said the Polish national works.

Orange said in a statement the security agency had on Tuesday gathered materials related to an employee, whom it did not identify. The company added that it did not know if the investigation was linked to the employee's professional work and that it would continue to cooperate with the authorities.

Meanwhile, China&nbsp;said that it was "highly concerned" by the arrest of a Chinese businessman over espionage allegations in Poland.&nbsp;

"We require relevant countries to handle relevant cases fairly and in accordance with the law, and earnestly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the person concerned," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a faxed statement to AFP.

"Huawei complies with all applicable laws and regulations in the countries where it operates, and we require every employee to abide by the laws and regulations in the countries where they are based," the company said.

Huawei Poland did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. Huawei in China could not immediately be reached for comment.

In December, Canadian authorities arrested a top Huawei executive, Meng Wanzhou, at the behest of US&nbsp;authorities as part of an investigation into alleged violations of US&nbsp;trade sanctions.

US&nbsp;intelligence agencies allege Huawei is linked to China's government and that its equipment could contain "backdoors" for use by government spies. No evidence has been produced publicly and the firm has repeatedly denied the claims.

The US criticism has led to a number of Western countries and companies to review whether they should allow Huawei's equipment to be used in their telecoms networks.

"The Chinese national is a businessman working in a major electronics company ... the Pole is a person known in circles associated with cyber business," Maciej Wasik, the deputy head of Poland's special services, told state news agency PAP.

The arrested pair will be held for three months, PAP reported, citing the spokesperson for Poland's head of special services.

TVP said the Polish national was a former agent of the internal security agency. The agency did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

Poland has arrested a Chinese employee of Huawei and a Polish national involved in cyber business on allegations of spying, Polish media reported on Friday, deepening the controversy over Western criticism of the Chinese telecoms equipment maker.

Poland has arrested a Chinese employee of Huawei and a Polish national involved in cyber business on allegations of spying, Polish media reported on Friday, deepening the controversy over Western criticism of the Chinese telecoms equipment maker. Polish public TV channel TVP said security services had also searched the local offices of Huawei Technologies Cos Ltd, as well as the offices of telecoms firm Orange Polska, where it said the Polish national works. Orange said in a statement the security agency had on Tuesday gathered materials related to an employee, whom it did not identify. The company added that it did not know if the investigation was linked to the employee's professional work and that it would continue to cooperate with the authorities. Meanwhile, China said that it was "highly concerned" by the arrest of a Chinese businessman over espionage allegations in Poland. "We require relevant countries to handle relevant cases fairly and in accordance with the law, and earnestly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of the person concerned," the Chinese foreign ministry said in a faxed statement to AFP. "Huawei complies with all applicable laws and regulations in the countries where it operates, and we require every employee to abide by the laws and regulations in the countries where they are based," the company said. Huawei Poland did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. Huawei in China could not immediately be reached for comment. In December, Canadian authorities arrested a top Huawei executive, Meng Wanzhou, at the behest of US authorities as part of an investigation into alleged violations of US trade sanctions. US intelligence agencies allege Huawei is linked to China's government and that its equipment could contain "backdoors" for use by government spies. No evidence has been produced publicly and the firm has repeatedly denied the claims. The US criticism has led to a number of Western countries and companies to review whether they should allow Huawei's equipment to be used in their telecoms networks. "The Chinese national is a businessman working in a major electronics company ... the Pole is a person known in circles associated with cyber business," Maciej Wasik, the deputy head of Poland's special services, told state news agency PAP. The arrested pair will be held for three months, PAP reported, citing the spokesperson for Poland's head of special services. TVP said the Polish national was a former agent of the internal security agency. The agency did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

Poland arrests Chinese Huawei employee, polish national over spying allegations

A Chinese envoy on Wednesday accused Canada and its<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-says-13-citizens-detained-in-china-since-huawei-cfo-arrest-188160"> allies of "Western egotism and white supremacy" </a>for demanding the immediate release of two Canadians held for alleged spying.

In a letter published by The Hill Times newspaper, China's ambassador to Canada Lu Shaye also criticized the "groundless" detention of a top Chinese tech executive at the request of the United States.

China detained former <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-should-free-canadians-held-after-huawei-arrest-uss-pompeo-says-184185">diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman</a> Michael Spavor last month, accusing them both of activities that "endanger China's security" -- a phrase often used by Beijing when alleging espionage.

The arrests are thought to be in retaliation against Canada's December 1st arrest of Huawei vice president Meng Wanzhou, who is accused of violating Iran sanctions.

"It's understandable that these Canadians are concerned about their own citizens. But have they shown any concern or sympathy for Meng after she was illegally detained and deprived of freedom?" Lu wrote in the Ottawa newspaper.

"It seems that, to some people, only Canadian citizens shall be treated in a humanitarian manner and their freedom deemed valuable, while Chinese people do not deserve that," he said.

"The reason why some people are used to arrogantly adopting double standards is due to Western egotism and white supremacy."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and US President Donald Trump in a telephone call on Monday denounced the "arbitrary" detentions of Kovrig and Spavor.

Australia, Britain, France, Japan, Germany and the European Union have also made statements in support of Canada.

Meng is currently living in a luxury home in Vancouver after being released on bail pending the outcome of an extradition hearing.

She is required to wear an electronic anklet to monitor her movements and has an 11:00 pm to 7:00 am curfew.

Meanwhile, a group of Canadian parliamentarians visiting China this week complained to officials that Kovrig and Spavor have been granted few consular visits, denied access to lawyers, and remain in "completely unacceptable" detention conditions.

A Chinese envoy on Wednesday accused Canada and its allies of "Western egotism and white supremacy" for demanding the immediate release of two Canadians held for alleged spying.

A Chinese envoy on Wednesday accused Canada and its allies of "Western egotism and white supremacy" for demanding the immediate release of two Canadians held for alleged spying. In a letter published by The Hill Times newspaper, China's ambassador to Canada Lu Shaye also criticized the "groundless" detention of a top Chinese tech executive at the request of the United States. China detained former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor last month, accusing them both of activities that "endanger China's security" -- a phrase often used by Beijing when alleging espionage. The arrests are thought to be in retaliation against Canada's December 1st arrest of Huawei vice president Meng Wanzhou, who is accused of violating Iran sanctions. "It's understandable that these Canadians are concerned about their own citizens. But have they shown any concern or sympathy for Meng after she was illegally detained and deprived of freedom?" Lu wrote in the Ottawa newspaper. "It seems that, to some people, only Canadian citizens shall be treated in a humanitarian manner and their freedom deemed valuable, while Chinese people do not deserve that," he said. "The reason why some people are used to arrogantly adopting double standards is due to Western egotism and white supremacy." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and US President Donald Trump in a telephone call on Monday denounced the "arbitrary" detentions of Kovrig and Spavor. Australia, Britain, France, Japan, Germany and the European Union have also made statements in support of Canada. Meng is currently living in a luxury home in Vancouver after being released on bail pending the outcome of an extradition hearing. She is required to wear an electronic anklet to monitor her movements and has an 11:00 pm to 7:00 am curfew. Meanwhile, a group of Canadian parliamentarians visiting China this week complained to officials that Kovrig and Spavor have been granted few consular visits, denied access to lawyers, and remain in "completely unacceptable" detention conditions.

Canada engaging in white supremacy over Huawei VP Meng: Chinese ambassador Lu Shaye

Chinese firms are encouraging staff to buy Huawei smartphones following Canada’s arrest of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/britain-voices-grave-concerns-over-chinas-huawei-186842">a top Huawei executive</a> on a US extradition request, which has triggered an outpouring of nationalist support.

Several companies are offering employees subsidies for Huawei phone purchases, while others have even warned staff against buying Apple products.&nbsp;

In eastern China, Fuchun Technology said "nearly sixty" out of its 200 employees have taken advantage of 100 to 500 yuan ($15 to $29) Huawei phone subsidies as of Saturday.&nbsp;

Another tech firm, Chengdu RYD Information Technology, has offered 15 per cent subsidies, though it declined to disclose how many employees have actually taken advantage of the benefits.

"We are supportive of good China-made brands," a spokeswoman told AFP, adding that the subsidies are part of employee benefits and were not "guided by the government."

One company has even threatened to fine employees who buy iPhones, charging them 100 per cent of the smartphone's market price.&nbsp;

"Stop buying US brands for company equipment," Shenzhen-based Men pad said in an internal notice, confirmed by AFP.

The surge of patriotism began after Meng Wanzhou, Huawei’s chief financial officer, was detained in Canada on December 1 on a US extradition request linked to sanctions-breaking business dealings with Iran.

She has since been released on bail pending her <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-mulls-new-year-executive-order-to-bar-huawei-zte-purchases-186787">US extradition hearing</a> and is now living under electronic surveillance in a luxury home in Vancouver.

Ottawa has repeatedly said Meng's arrest was not political but rather part of a judicial process in keeping with an extradition treaty with Washington.

But some in China see Meng's arrest as part of a broader conspiracy to suppress China's high-tech enterprises, with nationalist tabloid Global Times accusing Washington of "resorting to a despicable rogue's approach" because it cannot stop Huawei's progress in the 5G market.

The internal notices announcing the Huawei subsidies started circulating on China’s Twitter-like Weibo earlier this month, and have split Chinese internet opinion.

Some users were in favour of buying phones in the name of patriotism, while others questioned whether or not Chinese firms were simply leveraging Huawei's case as a marketing strategy or branding opportunity.

"Those companies are conscientious for standing by Huawei’s side," praised one Weibo user, using a thumb's up emoji. "The government should also publish an official document to support domestic brands."

But another user, who said they supported Huawei, criticised the practice of punishing staff who purchase Apple products. To win respect, domestic tech brands should "keep fighting despite setbacks and adopt an attitude of not accepting defeat," they said.

Chinese firms are encouraging staff to buy Huawei smartphones following Canada’s arrest of a top Huawei executive on a US extradition request, which has triggered an outpouring of nationalist support.

Chinese firms are encouraging staff to buy Huawei smartphones following Canada’s arrest of a top Huawei executive on a US extradition request, which has triggered an outpouring of nationalist support. Several companies are offering employees subsidies for Huawei phone purchases, while others have even warned staff against buying Apple products. In eastern China, Fuchun Technology said "nearly sixty" out of its 200 employees have taken advantage of 100 to 500 yuan ($15 to $29) Huawei phone subsidies as of Saturday. Another tech firm, Chengdu RYD Information Technology, has offered 15 per cent subsidies, though it declined to disclose how many employees have actually taken advantage of the benefits. "We are supportive of good China-made brands," a spokeswoman told AFP, adding that the subsidies are part of employee benefits and were not "guided by the government." One company has even threatened to fine employees who buy iPhones, charging them 100 per cent of the smartphone's market price. "Stop buying US brands for company equipment," Shenzhen-based Men pad said in an internal notice, confirmed by AFP. The surge of patriotism began after Meng Wanzhou, Huawei’s chief financial officer, was detained in Canada on December 1 on a US extradition request linked to sanctions-breaking business dealings with Iran. She has since been released on bail pending her US extradition hearing and is now living under electronic surveillance in a luxury home in Vancouver. Ottawa has repeatedly said Meng's arrest was not political but rather part of a judicial process in keeping with an extradition treaty with Washington. But some in China see Meng's arrest as part of a broader conspiracy to suppress China's high-tech enterprises, with nationalist tabloid Global Times accusing Washington of "resorting to a despicable rogue's approach" because it cannot stop Huawei's progress in the 5G market. The internal notices announcing the Huawei subsidies started circulating on China’s Twitter-like Weibo earlier this month, and have split Chinese internet opinion. Some users were in favour of buying phones in the name of patriotism, while others questioned whether or not Chinese firms were simply leveraging Huawei's case as a marketing strategy or branding opportunity. "Those companies are conscientious for standing by Huawei’s side," praised one Weibo user, using a thumb's up emoji. "The government should also publish an official document to support domestic brands." But another user, who said they supported Huawei, criticised the practice of punishing staff who purchase Apple products. To win respect, domestic tech brands should "keep fighting despite setbacks and adopt an attitude of not accepting defeat," they said.

Chinese firms support Huawei phones by offering subsidies

British Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has warned of his "very deep concerns" about Chinese technology giant Huawei being involved in the use of 5G on Britain's mobile network, &nbsp;The Times reported Thursday.

"I have grave, very deep concerns about Huawei providing the 5G network in Britain. It's something we'd have to look at very closely," Williamson was quoted as saying by the newspaper.

"We've got to look at what partners such as Australia and the US are doing in order to ensure that they have the maximum security of that 5G network," he said.

"We've got to recognise the fact, as has been recently exposed, that the Chinese state does sometimes act in a malign way," he said.

Williamson's comments echo similar warnings from MI6 spy agency chief Alex Younger who earlier this year said Britain would have to make "some decisions" about the involvement of firms such as Huawei.

Britain's government earlier this year announced the West Midlands region in central England would become the first large-scale testing area for 5G.

Fifth-generation mobile networks, or 5G, will have faster transmission speeds and could enable a far wider use of self-driving vehicles and internet-powered household objects.

Also read:<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-mulls-new-year-executive-order-to-bar-huawei-zte-purchases-186787"> Trump mulls executive order to bar Huawei, ZTE purchases</a>

It is expected to be rolled out in Asia and the United States from 2020.

Huawei has defended its global ambitions and network in the face of Western fears that the Chinese telecom giant could serve as a Trojan horse for Beijing's security apparatus.

The company has been under fire this year with Washington leading efforts to blacklist Huawei internationally and securing the arrest of the company's chief financial officer in Canada.

Countries like the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Britain have pulled back from using its products while concerns grow in Japan, France, Germany and even the Czech Republic over security issues.

'I have grave, very deep concerns about Huawei providing the 5G network in Britain. It's something we'd have to look at very closely,' Williamson was quoted as saying by the local newspaper.

British Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has warned of his "very deep concerns" about Chinese technology giant Huawei being involved in the use of 5G on Britain's mobile network, The Times reported Thursday. "I have grave, very deep concerns about Huawei providing the 5G network in Britain. It's something we'd have to look at very closely," Williamson was quoted as saying by the newspaper. "We've got to look at what partners such as Australia and the US are doing in order to ensure that they have the maximum security of that 5G network," he said. "We've got to recognise the fact, as has been recently exposed, that the Chinese state does sometimes act in a malign way," he said. Williamson's comments echo similar warnings from MI6 spy agency chief Alex Younger who earlier this year said Britain would have to make "some decisions" about the involvement of firms such as Huawei. Britain's government earlier this year announced the West Midlands region in central England would become the first large-scale testing area for 5G. Fifth-generation mobile networks, or 5G, will have faster transmission speeds and could enable a far wider use of self-driving vehicles and internet-powered household objects. Also read: Trump mulls executive order to bar Huawei, ZTE purchases It is expected to be rolled out in Asia and the United States from 2020. Huawei has defended its global ambitions and network in the face of Western fears that the Chinese telecom giant could serve as a Trojan horse for Beijing's security apparatus. The company has been under fire this year with Washington leading efforts to blacklist Huawei internationally and securing the arrest of the company's chief financial officer in Canada. Countries like the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Britain have pulled back from using its products while concerns grow in Japan, France, Germany and even the Czech Republic over security issues.

Britain voices 'grave' concerns over China's Huawei

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-it-held-second-vice-ministerial-call-with-us-on-trade-186021">China </a>accused Britain and the European Union of hypocrisy on Monday for expressing concern about China's detention of two Canadian citizens, saying they had double standards for not mentioning a senior Chinese executive arrested in Canada.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Saturday Canada will maintain a high-level campaign in the coming days to<a href="http://www.wionews.com/americas/canada-seeks-help-of-allies-for-release-of-detainees-in-china-185916"> seek support from allies </a>as it pressures China to free the two detained Canadians, who China says are suspected of endangering state security.

Freeland spoke a day after the United States joined Canada in calling on Beijing to release the pair, who were held after Canadian authorities arrested a senior Chinese executive on a US&nbsp;extradition warrant. Britain and the European Union have also expressed support for Canada.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Beijing expressed "strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition" to comments by Canada, the United States and others on the detained Canadians.

The two, Michael Kovrig, a former diplomat and an adviser with the International Crisis Group (ICG) think-tank, and businessman Michael Spavor are suspected of endangering state security so they are "of course" being detained, Hua said.

"We urge relevant countries to earnestly respect China's judicial sovereignty," she told a daily news briefing, reiterating their lawful rights have been guaranteed.

The support of Britain and the European Union was "strange", Hua added.

"What's this got to do with Britain and the EU? When the Canadians illegally detained a senior executive at a Chinese company at the request of the United States, where were they?" she said.

"Their so-called human rights have different standards for different countries' citizens," Hua added.

Kovrig is also a Hungarian and therefore an EU citizen, sources told Reuters last week.

The two were detained after Canadian police arrested Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's chief financial officer,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-cfo-meng-wanzhou-freed-on-bail-leaves-courthouse-183504"> Meng Wanzhou</a>, on December 1.

China again urges Canada to release Meng and the United States to withdraw its arrest warrant, Hua said.

While Meng has had full access to lawyers and is able to see family, Kovrig is being denied legal representation, is not allowed to see family, and is limited to one consular visit a month, sources familiar with the situation say.

No details have been revealed about Spavor's detention. Canadian diplomats have seen both men at least once since they were detained.

Canada arrested Meng at the request of the United States, which is engaged in a trade war with China. Meng faces extradition to the United States to face fraud charges which carry a maximum sentence of 30 years jail for each charge.

China has given only vague details of why they have detained the two Canadians and has not drawn a direct link to Meng's arrest.

China accused Britain and the European Union of hypocrisy on Monday for expressing concern about China's detention of two Canadian citizens, saying they had double standards for not mentioning a senior Chinese executive arrested in Canada.

China accused Britain and the European Union of hypocrisy on Monday for expressing concern about China's detention of two Canadian citizens, saying they had double standards for not mentioning a senior Chinese executive arrested in Canada. Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Saturday Canada will maintain a high-level campaign in the coming days to seek support from allies as it pressures China to free the two detained Canadians, who China says are suspected of endangering state security. Freeland spoke a day after the United States joined Canada in calling on Beijing to release the pair, who were held after Canadian authorities arrested a senior Chinese executive on a US extradition warrant. Britain and the European Union have also expressed support for Canada. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Beijing expressed "strong dissatisfaction and resolute opposition" to comments by Canada, the United States and others on the detained Canadians. The two, Michael Kovrig, a former diplomat and an adviser with the International Crisis Group (ICG) think-tank, and businessman Michael Spavor are suspected of endangering state security so they are "of course" being detained, Hua said. "We urge relevant countries to earnestly respect China's judicial sovereignty," she told a daily news briefing, reiterating their lawful rights have been guaranteed. The support of Britain and the European Union was "strange", Hua added. "What's this got to do with Britain and the EU? When the Canadians illegally detained a senior executive at a Chinese company at the request of the United States, where were they?" she said. "Their so-called human rights have different standards for different countries' citizens," Hua added. Kovrig is also a Hungarian and therefore an EU citizen, sources told Reuters last week. The two were detained after Canadian police arrested Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's chief financial officer, Meng Wanzhou, on December 1. China again urges Canada to release Meng and the United States to withdraw its arrest warrant, Hua said. While Meng has had full access to lawyers and is able to see family, Kovrig is being denied legal representation, is not allowed to see family, and is limited to one consular visit a month, sources familiar with the situation say. No details have been revealed about Spavor's detention. Canadian diplomats have seen both men at least once since they were detained. Canada arrested Meng at the request of the United States, which is engaged in a trade war with China. Meng faces extradition to the United States to face fraud charges which carry a maximum sentence of 30 years jail for each charge. China has given only vague details of why they have detained the two Canadians and has not drawn a direct link to Meng's arrest.

Video: China accuses Britain, EU of hypocrisy over Canada detentions concerns

Foreign investors have pumped in close to Rs 4,000 crore in the Indian capital markets this month so far on strengthening rupee and easing global crude oil prices.

This comes following a 10-month high net inflow of over Rs 12,266 crore in the capital markets (equity and debt) by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/fpis-pull-out-nearly-rs-400-crore-in-just-5-sessions-on-global-cues-182620">Foreign Portfolio Investors </a>(FPIs) in November.

According to data available with the depositories, FPIs infused a net amount of Rs 1,332 crore in equities and Rs 2,552 crore in the debt markets, taking the total to Rs 3,884 crore during December 3-21.

Marketmen attributed the inflow to persistent fall in crude oil prices, which dropped to over 15-month lows, and strengthening rupee against the dollar.

However, till December 7, FPIs were net sellers in the equity market, pulling out funds to the tune of Rs 383 crore. However, they had put in Rs 2,744 crore in the debt markets during the period under review.

"The sell-off was triggered on December 6, when FPIs sold net assets worth Rs 361 crore in a single day. This could be largely attributed to the weakness in the global markets due to the arrest of a high-profile Chinese executive which led to a sharp fall in the stock markets globally," said Himanshu Srivastava, Senior Analyst Manager Research, Morningstar Investment Adviser India.

"Investors fear that the relationship between the world's two biggest economies — US and China — could deteriorate following the arrest and hurt economic growth. Consequently, they chose to adopt a cautious stance and shun risky assets, such as their investments in emerging markets like India, which are more susceptible to weak global cues," he added.

The sell-off by FPIs was triggered after Chinese telecom giant Huawei's CFO <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-cfo-meng-wanzhou-freed-on-bail-leaves-courthouse-183504">Meng Wanzhou</a>, who is also the company founder's daughter, was arrested in Canada for extradition to the US for suspected Iran sanctions violations.

FPIs have pulled out over Rs 84,200 crore from the capital markets so far this year. This includes close to Rs 34,000 crore from equities and Rs 50,200 crore from the debt market.

Foreign investors have pumped in close to Rs 4,000 crore in the Indian capital markets this month so far on strengthening rupee and easing global crude oil prices.

Foreign investors have pumped in close to Rs 4,000 crore in the Indian capital markets this month so far on strengthening rupee and easing global crude oil prices. This comes following a 10-month high net inflow of over Rs 12,266 crore in the capital markets (equity and debt) by Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) in November. According to data available with the depositories, FPIs infused a net amount of Rs 1,332 crore in equities and Rs 2,552 crore in the debt markets, taking the total to Rs 3,884 crore during December 3-21. Marketmen attributed the inflow to persistent fall in crude oil prices, which dropped to over 15-month lows, and strengthening rupee against the dollar. However, till December 7, FPIs were net sellers in the equity market, pulling out funds to the tune of Rs 383 crore. However, they had put in Rs 2,744 crore in the debt markets during the period under review. "The sell-off was triggered on December 6, when FPIs sold net assets worth Rs 361 crore in a single day. This could be largely attributed to the weakness in the global markets due to the arrest of a high-profile Chinese executive which led to a sharp fall in the stock markets globally," said Himanshu Srivastava, Senior Analyst Manager Research, Morningstar Investment Adviser India. "Investors fear that the relationship between the world's two biggest economies — US and China — could deteriorate following the arrest and hurt economic growth. Consequently, they chose to adopt a cautious stance and shun risky assets, such as their investments in emerging markets like India, which are more susceptible to weak global cues," he added. The sell-off by FPIs was triggered after Chinese telecom giant Huawei's CFO Meng Wanzhou, who is also the company founder's daughter, was arrested in Canada for extradition to the US for suspected Iran sanctions violations. FPIs have pulled out over Rs 84,200 crore from the capital markets so far this year. This includes close to Rs 34,000 crore from equities and Rs 50,200 crore from the debt market.

FPIs infuse Rs 4,000-cr in 3 weeks on strengthening rupee, easing crude prices

China's foreign ministry&nbsp;said today that it had held a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/canada-court-grants-conditional-bail-to-huaweis-meng-wanzhou-183357">third Canadian national for working</a> illegally in the country.

A&nbsp;Canadian&nbsp;woman named Sarah McIver&nbsp;faces "administrative penalties", said Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying at a press briefing in Beijing.

"In the case of the current consular situations we're going to continue to defend them, to stand up for them, to ask for more information on the charges being brought forward, or the reasons for detention," Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said.

A Canadian newspaper had identified McIver as a teacher.

The new development comes <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/do-not-politicise-extradition-cases-canada-warns-us-183654">after China had earlier detained</a> former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor after Canadian authorities had arrested and later released Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou last week.

Meng was arrested after US authorities asked Canadian officials to detain her at the Vancouver airport over&nbsp;Huawei's alleged trade transactions with Iran. Meng&nbsp;was&nbsp;released on conditional bail and has been barred from leaving Canada.

PM Trudeau maintained that it was "a very separate case" from last week.

"But we are looking into the details on this most recent one - that doesn't seem to fit the pattern set by the previous two, but we'll have more to say as we collect the facts on this issue," PM Trudeau informed reporters.

"We have engaged in a very&nbsp;thoughtful way on trying to get the best outcome, and sometimes politicising or amplifying the level of public discourse on this may be satisfying in the short term, but would not contribute to the outcome,"&nbsp;PM Trudeau added.

China's foreign ministry said today that it had held a third Canadian national for working illegally in the country. A Canadian woman named Sarah McIver faces "administrative penalties", said Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying at a press briefing in Beijing.

China's foreign ministry said today that it had held a third Canadian national for working illegally in the country. A Canadian woman named Sarah McIver faces "administrative penalties", said Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying at a press briefing in Beijing. "In the case of the current consular situations we're going to continue to defend them, to stand up for them, to ask for more information on the charges being brought forward, or the reasons for detention," Canadian PM Justin Trudeau said. A Canadian newspaper had identified McIver as a teacher. The new development comes after China had earlier detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor after Canadian authorities had arrested and later released Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou last week. Meng was arrested after US authorities asked Canadian officials to detain her at the Vancouver airport over Huawei's alleged trade transactions with Iran. Meng was released on conditional bail and has been barred from leaving Canada. PM Trudeau maintained that it was "a very separate case" from last week. "But we are looking into the details on this most recent one - that doesn't seem to fit the pattern set by the previous two, but we'll have more to say as we collect the facts on this issue," PM Trudeau informed reporters. "We have engaged in a very thoughtful way on trying to get the best outcome, and sometimes politicising or amplifying the level of public discourse on this may be satisfying in the short term, but would not contribute to the outcome," PM Trudeau added.

Third Canadian held for working illegally in the country: China

Mike Pompeo urges release of two Canadians

Canada's ambassador met in Beijing Friday with a detained former diplomat for the first time since he was arrested in China amid sharpening East-West tensions over trade and other issues.

Michael Kovrig, the former diplomat, and a second Canadian, Michael Spavor, were taken into custody earlier in the week after a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/do-not-politicise-extradition-cases-canada-warns-us-183654">top Chinese tech executive was arrested</a> in Vancouver at the request of the United States.

Canada's foreign ministry said its ambassador to Beijing, John McCallum, was granted consular access to Kovrig and is pressing for access to Spavor. Speaking to The Canadian Press, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau predicted that access would take place "shortly."

"We are being absolutely clear on standing up for our citizens who have been detained, trying to figure out why, trying to work with China to demonstrate that this not acceptable," he told Citytv in Toronto.

Meanwhile, in Washington, Canada's foreign and defence ministers held talks with their US counterparts on the row.

The Canadians were arrested for what China has said is suspicion of "harm to national security" -- a phrase often used by Beijing when alleging espionage.

But the detentions are widely believed to be retaliation for Canada's arrest December 1 of Meng Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of Chinese telecom giant Huawei.

Meng was arrested while changing planes in Vancouver, outraging China and sparking a diplomatic standoff between the North American allies and Beijing.

"This is one of the situations you get in when the two largest economies in the world, China and the United States, start picking a fight with each other," Trudeau said.&nbsp;

"The escalating trade war between them is going to have all sorts of unintended consequences for Canada, potentially the entire global economy. We're very worried about that."

The United States has accused her of lying to bankers about the use of a covert subsidiary to sell to Iran in breach of sanctions. If convicted, she faces more than 30 years in prison.

On Tuesday, a Canadian judge ordered Meng's release on Can$10 million ($7.5 million US) bail, pending a US extradition hearing.

Visit shelved

Canadian Tourism Minister Melanie Joly, meanwhile, shelved a trip to China next week to promote tourism.

Since Beijing approved Canada as a tourist destination for its citizens in 2010, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Canada has risen by 20 percent per year to almost 700,000 in 2017.

Ottawa had hoped to double the figure by 2021, opening seven new visa application offices in China this year to facilitate the processing of travel documents. But those targets are now in doubt amid a public backlash in China.

Kovrig, who works for the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank, was being investigated by the Beijing bureau of state security, while the agency's office in northeastern Liaoning province was handling the probe into Spavor, Lu said.

Spavor is a China-based business consultant who facilitates trips to North Korea, met with its leader Kim Jong Un and arranged some of retired NBA star Dennis Rodman's trips to the country.

China's foreign ministry said ICG was not registered in China and its employees would be "in violation" of the law if they engage in activities in the country.

ICG closed its office in the Chinese capital after Beijing passed a law on NGOs, which came into force in 2017, to better control the activities on its soil of foreign organizations.

Kovrig was based in Hong Kong for ICG, working on foreign policy and security issues in the region, particularly on the Korean Peninsula.

Canada's ambassador met in Beijing Friday with a detained former diplomat for the first time since he was arrested in China amid sharpening East-West tensions over trade and other issues.

Canada's ambassador met in Beijing Friday with a detained former diplomat for the first time since he was arrested in China amid sharpening East-West tensions over trade and other issues. Michael Kovrig, the former diplomat, and a second Canadian, Michael Spavor, were taken into custody earlier in the week after a top Chinese tech executive was arrested in Vancouver at the request of the United States. Canada's foreign ministry said its ambassador to Beijing, John McCallum, was granted consular access to Kovrig and is pressing for access to Spavor. Speaking to The Canadian Press, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau predicted that access would take place "shortly." "We are being absolutely clear on standing up for our citizens who have been detained, trying to figure out why, trying to work with China to demonstrate that this not acceptable," he told Citytv in Toronto. Meanwhile, in Washington, Canada's foreign and defence ministers held talks with their US counterparts on the row. The Canadians were arrested for what China has said is suspicion of "harm to national security" -- a phrase often used by Beijing when alleging espionage. But the detentions are widely believed to be retaliation for Canada's arrest December 1 of Meng Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of Chinese telecom giant Huawei. Meng was arrested while changing planes in Vancouver, outraging China and sparking a diplomatic standoff between the North American allies and Beijing. "This is one of the situations you get in when the two largest economies in the world, China and the United States, start picking a fight with each other," Trudeau said. "The escalating trade war between them is going to have all sorts of unintended consequences for Canada, potentially the entire global economy. We're very worried about that." The United States has accused her of lying to bankers about the use of a covert subsidiary to sell to Iran in breach of sanctions. If convicted, she faces more than 30 years in prison. On Tuesday, a Canadian judge ordered Meng's release on Can$10 million ($7.5 million US) bail, pending a US extradition hearing. Visit shelved Canadian Tourism Minister Melanie Joly, meanwhile, shelved a trip to China next week to promote tourism. Since Beijing approved Canada as a tourist destination for its citizens in 2010, the number of Chinese tourists visiting Canada has risen by 20 percent per year to almost 700,000 in 2017. Ottawa had hoped to double the figure by 2021, opening seven new visa application offices in China this year to facilitate the processing of travel documents. But those targets are now in doubt amid a public backlash in China. Kovrig, who works for the International Crisis Group (ICG) think tank, was being investigated by the Beijing bureau of state security, while the agency's office in northeastern Liaoning province was handling the probe into Spavor, Lu said. Spavor is a China-based business consultant who facilitates trips to North Korea, met with its leader Kim Jong Un and arranged some of retired NBA star Dennis Rodman's trips to the country. China's foreign ministry said ICG was not registered in China and its employees would be "in violation" of the law if they engage in activities in the country. ICG closed its office in the Chinese capital after Beijing passed a law on NGOs, which came into force in 2017, to better control the activities on its soil of foreign organizations. Kovrig was based in Hong Kong for ICG, working on foreign policy and security issues in the region, particularly on the Korean Peninsula.

Canada granted consular access to ex-diplomat held by China: Official

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