Question Period Note: Detention of Canadian Michael Kovrig in China

• The Government of Canada is aware that the case of Michael Kovrig have entered a new stage of the Chinese judicial process.
• Canada is deeply concerned by the arbitrary detention and arrest by Chinese authorities and we call for his immediate release.
• We continue to raise this case with Chinese authorities at the highest level and will continue to do so.
• Canadian consular officials continue to provide consular services to Mr. Kovrig, as well as to his family.
• Due to provisions of the Privacy Act, no further information can be disclosed.
• This issue is a top priority for the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Responsive – Diplomatic Immunities:
• Canada calls on China to respect the residual immunities provided in the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, to which both Canada and China are signatories.

• On December 10, 2018, Michael Kovrig was detained in Beijing for allegedly endangering China’s national security. redacted
• Beijing State Security continues its investigation of the case. Mr. Kovrig’s case was transferred to prosecution on December 6, 2019. redacted
• Canadian officials in Ottawa and Beijing are in regular contact with Mr. Kovrig’s family.

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