China says it ‘never interfered’ in Canadian elections

China has debunked allegations it interfered in federal elections in Canada, describing Canadian media reports that cited intelligence documents as “false” and attempts at “smearing” the country.

A recent statement from the Chinese consulate general in Vancouver accused Canadian media of “smearing and discrediting China” and it expressed its “strong dissatisfaction.”

The statement was issued after a report in The Globe and Mail newspaper, which cited confidential intelligence documents that said China interfered in the 2021 federal elections.

The paper reported that the government of China used diplomats and proxies to lead disinformation campaigns targeted at boosting some candidates of the Liberal party against their Conservative rivals.

The Chinese consulate general statement said authorities had “made it clear on many occasions that China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries and has never interfered in any Canadian election.”

It said the accusations “will damage the friendship and interests of the peoples of both countries.”

Furthermore, the statement further urged “the relevant media to abide by professional ethics, immediately stop smearing and attacking China and the Consulate General, and do more good deeds” to improve mutual understanding.

When asked about the matter recently, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made it clear that the last elections won by his government were legitimate.

He added that he had a long-time awareness of attempts by Chinese attempts to interfere, but that Canadians could have “total confidence” in the integrity of their election.