Extradition proceedings are to go ahead against Chinese technology company executive Meng Wanzhou. The Huawei CFO has been accused of numerous criminal acts by the USA, including fraud and sanctions violations. US lawmakers are looking to have Meng extradited to the country so that she can face the charges in an American court.
The next step for Meng will be an appearance in a Vancouver court on March 6 where a date for her extradition hearing will be set. It has been mentioned that legal proceedings could take a considerable amount of time due to Canada’s numerous provisions for appeal. It’s likely the final decision will eventually be made by a federal justice minister.
The issue of Meng Wanzhou’s potential extradition is very sticky for Canada in regard to its international relations with both China and the USA. Naturally, the government does not want to irritate its close neighbor to the south but having a relationship further tainted by animosity with China does not make much diplomatic sense. It seems only a matter of time before the Chinese government retaliates.