LETTER TO THE EDITOR

PM right to refuse to release Meng

There seems to be growing support for releasing Meng Wanzhou in the hope this will lead to the release of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor.

Prime Minister Trudeau is correct in saying no to this on a number of grounds. First, he is right to maintain the rule of law must be respected, particularly when his cheeks are still a bit red from Snc-lavalin. It is interesting to see former justice ministers, lawyers, and even a former prime minister of the view that upholding the rule of law is optional.

Second, if Canada were to arbitrarily release Ms. Meng, what does it say about our country as a reliable signatory to treaties? Yes, there is a convenient “out” clause in Canada’s extradition treaty with the U.S., but when was the last time this provision was used? Treaties serve constructive purposes, and no matter what we may think of the current American president, we are well advised to adhere to our treaties now and in future. The fact the minister of justice may have the legal right to excuse Meng from the extradition proceedings doesn’t mean it’s the right course of action for Canada to pursue.

Also, what message does it send to China and the world if we release Meng? It says Canada is a country which can be bullied, which will break under pressure. Also, succumbing to any bully usually guarantees they will be back for more.

Lastly, there is no guarantee that release of Ms. Meng would mean the subsequent release of the Michaels.

None. You cannot base foreign policy decisions on “intimations.”

We may well give up our only significant asset and get nothing in return.

Remember this all started with an extradition request from an American president to whom the law means nothing; who has stated openly he would drop the extradition request for Ms. Meng in exchange for a better trade deal with China.

Is The Art of the Deal really the standard of foreign relations Canada now aspires to?

Canada’s heart goes out to the Michaels and their families. However, Prime Minister Trudeau should be encouraged to stand firm. He is doing the right thing. Our prime minister has had the misfortune of getting caught in a dispute between two of the world’s premier bullies. The last thing he needs is to also have to watch his back at home. Roy Schneider, Regina

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