Scheer Condemns Liberal Invitation of Chinese Interference in Election

July 10, 2019

Regina, SK – The Honourable Andrew Scheer, Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and of the Official Opposition, issued a statement following former Liberal cabinet minister and Justin Trudeau’s former Ambassador to China John McCallum’s recent comments on the ongoing China-Canada dispute:
 
“I forcefully and unequivocally condemn recent comments by high-profile Liberals encouraging the Chinese government to help re-elect the government this October. This invitation of foreign interference in the Canadian election – to a regime that has proven itself hostile to Canadian interests – is absolutely reprehensible.
 
“I also find it appalling that Liberals are attempting to win favour with a communist government that is illegally detaining two Canadian citizens and blocking Canadian agricultural imports. Instead of scheming with the Government of China to win re-election, Liberals should advocate for the safe return of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor and the restoration of Canadian canola and meat imports to China.
 
“That Justin Trudeau appointed John McCallum – someone who has repeatedly advocated against Canada’s interests – to one of Canada’s most important diplomatic posts demonstrates his incompetence and poor judgment on the world stage.
 
“However, this latest episode is not particularly surprising considering Trudeau’s admiration for the Chinese communist regime – or China’s ‘basic dictatorship,’ as he once put it. As Prime Minister, he has continually failed to stand up for Canadian interests and has instead chosen to appease the Government of China at every turn. This approach has failed.
 
“A new Conservative government will always stand up for Canada’s interests on the world stage and will not allow any country that wishes us harm to push us around.”