Canada Is Responding To The Hong Kong Situation & It Includes A New Travel Warning
The National Security legislation from China's leading political party has spurred Hong Kong protests and civic unrest. Now Canada is taking a hardline stance. The nation has increased its travel advisory to the region and taken other steps.
Canada officially upgraded Hong Kong's travel advisory, asking anyone visiting the region to "exercise a high degree of caution," due to the ongoing issues.
The travel advisory website also notes under the laws and culture section that travellers could be at risk of arbitrary detention on national security grounds, with the possibility of extradition to Mainland China.
The Canadian Government is also still discouraging any non-essential travel due to the ongoing global pandemic.
In his July 3 press conference, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced further measures against the country for this new legislation.
This includes stopping the export of sensitive military equipment to Hong Kong and suspending the Canada-Hong Kong extradition treaty.
"Canada is a firm believer in the one country, two system framework," Trudeau said, "we will continue to support the many connections between Canada and Hong Kong while also standing up for its people."
Trudeau also noted that Canada would be looking at further measures, including ones that involve immigration.
Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister, François-Philippe Champagne, also released a statement regarding the new National Security legislation, which came into effect on July 1.
"This legislation was enacted in a secretive process, without the participation of Hong Kong’s legislature, judiciary or people, and in violation of international obligations," Champagne said in a statement.
He added, "The Government of Canada will continue to work with partners to protect human rights and the rule of law around the world."
Canada-China relations have been put under further tension by the arrest of Canadian nationals Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. The two were taken into custody shortly after Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Canada.
Trudeau said he would not consider trading Wanzhou for the two Michaels.