As tensions continue to rise between Canada and China, the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for citizens visiting the Asian country. The advisory, issued by Global Affairs Canada, warns of the potential for arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the risk of arbitrary detention in China.
The advisory comes after the high-profile detainment of two Canadian citizens, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, in December 2018. The two men have been detained in China on charges of espionage, in what is widely seen as retaliation for the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Canada on extradition charges from the United States.
The travel advisory also notes that Canadian citizens have been subject to surveillance and harassment while in China, and advises citizens to exercise a high degree of caution. It also advises citizens to be aware of the risk of arbitrary enforcement of local laws, and to consider the risk of arbitrary detention in China.
The Canadian government has also updated its advice for Canadians doing business in China, warning of the potential for arbitrary enforcement of local laws and the risk of arbitrary detention. The government advises Canadian companies to be aware of the risks and to take appropriate measures to protect themselves and their employees.
The travel advisory comes amid a growing diplomatic rift between Canada and China, which has seen the two countries expel each other’s diplomats and suspend official dialogue. The situation has also raised concerns about the safety of Canadians in China and the potential impact on Canadian businesses operating in the country.
As the situation continues to evolve, Canadian citizens are advised to monitor developments and to exercise a high degree of caution when travelling to China. The government also encourages all Canadians in China to register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service and to subscribe to receive updates and alerts from the government.