The Chinese government doesn't care about speculation that this was retaliation. They might claim these men were arrested on legitimate grounds, but they want everyone to know why they were arrested, which is what the timing is about. It is a deterrent, "do not extradite our assets upon request."
I see a lot of influencers acting like it's no big deal to travel to China. That it's as safe as any other Asian country. Meanwhile, for three years, China holds Western hostages. Not a place I'd want to visit even with the technological cities like Shenzhen, the historical sites, the beautiful landscape and the ancient culture being so alluring [1]
I prefer to remain free*
* And instead take my chances getting maimed by an American cop at a traffic stop or protest [2] ;-)
depending on the source the number of foreigners imprisoned in China over the last ten years seems to be about a few dozen to 200. About two million Europeans travel to China per year so very low. I'm German and have spent several months at a time in China over the last ten years. If you're just a random guy it's completely fine. Contrary to the other reply, posting on social media or teaching English doesn't land you in prison, and China isn't like Nazi Germany.
There has been zero evidence presented that they were spies. The fact that they were detained within days of Meng's arrest and released within hours of her being set free should tell you all you need to know.
The CCP has engaged in hostage taking because one of their elite members was arrested.
At any rate, now that they are free - Canada can go ahead and ban Huawei 5G networks like the rest of the 5 eyes (save NZ I think?)
Is there any evidence they were spies? I read the one guy arranged Dennis Rodman’s trip to North Korea. They were said to be a former diplomat and a business man.
How do any Canadians in the room feel about their business trips to China these days?
Unfortunately, most of the affordable flights to other parts of Asia connect through China these days. I'll be avoiding those connections now - even if it costs significantly more.
Is whether or not they're neutral ground something you wish to test with your freedom? If you have reason to avoid stepping foot in China, you have reason to avoid stepping foot in Chinese airports, even on international stopovers.
