Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau has fired Canada’s Ambassador to China, John McCallum. The decision came soon after the Ambassador made controversial statements about Huawei CFO, Meng Wanzhou’s extradition by the United States amid ongoing Canada-China diplomatic rift
Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau fired the country’s Ambassador to China, John McCallum after he made controversial statements about the ongoing Huawei rift between the two countries. Last week, the former Canadian Ambassador, publicly stated that the reports about the United States demanding the extradition of Chinese CFO, Meng Wanzhou were flawed.
After making controversial statements in the case, the Canadian Ambassador to China clarified that he “misspoke”. However, he did go on to say that it would be “great for Canada” if the United States dropped the extradition request against Meng Wanzhou. This was followed by Canadian Prime Minister’s statement, which clarified that he had “asked for and accepted John McCallum’s resignation as Canada’s ambassador to China.” The reasons behind the sacking were not disclosed.
The dismissed Canadian Ambassador, John McCallum, formerly, held the important diplomatic positions like Immigration Minister and Defence Minister of Canada.
The Huawei Chief Financial Officer, Meng Wanzhou was arrested by Canadian authorities on the United States’ request in December, 2018. China has since demanded her release and initiated a series of retaliations to showcase their sternness on the matter. Canada condemned China’s actions, which further escalated the diplomatic tension between the two countries.
The deadline for Washington to demand Meng Wanzhou’s extradition will be reached on Wednesday. The United States has assured that it will meet the deadline. Meanwhile, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has urged the United States to withdraw the arrest order against the Huawei CFO, further refraining from moving ahead with the extradition request.
