The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today issued the following statement:
"Canada is deeply concerned following the sentencing today of 45 people in a national security trial of pro-democracy advocates known as the Hong Kong 47. The prosecution of these individuals and the lengthy prison sentences that ranged from 4 to 10 years are troubling.
"The 47 people charged in this case - many of whom were elected officials chosen by the people of Hong Kong - were arrested and prosecuted for peaceful political activity, including organizing an unofficial primary election.
"Since China imposed the National Security Law in 2020, Canada, along with other countries, civil society organizations, Human Rights Watch, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and UN special rapporteurs have raised concerns about Hong Kong's national security laws and judicial independence in national security trials.
"Hong Kong has not addressed these human rights issues. Canada is concerned that Hong Kong continues to suppress rights and freedoms, violating its obligations under international law. More than 7,000 pro-democracy advocates have been arrested since 2019, and are still waiting for their trials. Their rights to freedom of expression and fair and public hearings are being violated.
"The confidence of the international community depends on Hong Kong's response to these concerns. Hong Kong must end the prosecution of all people charged under national security legislation.
"Canada will continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Hong Kong. We will continue to uphold accountability for international human rights obligations by actively engaging with China, Hong Kong and international partners."
