Huawei’s Chinese headquarters in Germany (Photo: Getty Images)
After Huawei director Meng Wanzhou was released by Canadian justice on Friday (24), China announced that Canadians Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig have been released from prison and will be able to return to their country.
The news was confirmed this Friday evening by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
“A few minutes ago, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor left Chinese airspace to return home. These two men endured a terrible ordeal for more than a thousand days. They have shown determination and resilience day after day. and are an inspiration to all of us. ” Trudeau said during the announcement.
Although not yet confirmed, it is estimated that the two arrived on Canadian soil this Saturday morning (25).
Former diplomat Kovrig and businessman Spavor were arrested in December 2018 on charges of espionage. The second was even sentenced to 11 years in prison for the “crime” recently.
Their arrest has always been viewed by Ottawa as a response to Meng’s arrest, which the Canadians made at the behest of the United States. The Americans accuse the executive and the daughter of the founder of Huawei of violating sanctions against Iran and of committing real estate and bank fraud offenses to mask support for the Iranians.
On Friday, however, the US Department of Justice and the director’s lawyers reached an agreement to have her released. That night, the Vancouver Department of Justice released Meng after a brief hearing.
The arrival of the Chinese executive has gained considerable prominence in the country’s state media, which widely covers his return after nearly three years. The Chinese company and government have also said they will continue to fight to defend Meng against Washington’s “baseless” accusations. (ANSA).
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