Canada’s Dilemma Over Meng Wanzhou: A Raucous Call to Action
The Global Times, a state‑run Chinese newspaper, has thrown its weight behind a bold claim: Canada should pull a Ye Olde “U‑S‑Big‑Brother” out of its office and let Meng Wanzhou, the financial mastermind behind Huawei, off the hook. That’s the headline of its latest editorial.
The Stakes
- When Meng Wanzhou was nabbed in Vancouver on December 1, the U.S. prosecutors accused her of tricking banks into handling Iran‑linked transactions—clearly violating sanctions.
- She’s been bailed out as of Tuesday and has no criminal record worldwide, but the American charges are soaring.
- Under the U.S.–Canada extradition treaty, Canada can set her free if the U.S. fails to formally request her extradition within 60 days from her arrest.
- Her arrest, the editorial notes, violates that treaty and, in the words of the Global Times, “makes Canada the 51st state of Washington.”
The Call for Canadian Decoupling
The piece urges Canada to “distance itself from US hegemonism” and fulfill its duty to uphold international order and protect human rights—essentially, of the form: Hey Canada, put down that big U.S. stick and let the woman go like a free bird.
Extra Detail: The Kovrig Twist
- Meanwhile, the Chinese state has detained former Canadian diplomat Michael Kovrig for allegedly “harmful” activities, a move that has sparked a diplomatic standoff.
- The Global Times dismisses any link to Meng’s case, suggesting people expect Chinese retaliation when Canada oversteps.
Political Drama Continues
Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland has warned the U.S. against politicising extradition cases—especially after President Trump hinted at stepping in if national‑security interests require it.
China’s official newspaper, China Daily, added that the U.S. is “manufacturing the diplomatic incident” for political motives and doubted Washington could hold Meng ransom for trade concessions.
Bottom Line
In short, the Global Times is urging Canada to act independently, ditch the U.S. influence, and throw a lifeline to Meng—since the current hostage‑tactic seems ripe for a break‑down. The world will be watching closely as this high‑tech showdown unfolds.
