China announced on Saturday that it has imposed countermeasures against two Canadian organizations and 20 associated individuals, according to a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The decision took effect on December 21, 2024.
The sanctioned organizations are the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project and the Canada-Tibet Committee. As part of the measures, China has frozen all movable and immovable assets belonging to these entities within its borders. Additionally, Chinese individuals and organizations are prohibited from engaging in any transactions or cooperation with them.
The sanctions also target 20 personnel affiliated with the two organizations. Their assets within China have been frozen, and they are barred from conducting transactions or cooperation with Chinese entities. Furthermore, they will not be issued visas or permitted entry into China, including the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macao.
The 15 individuals from the Uyghur Rights Advocacy Project affected by the sanctions are Executive Director Mehmet Tohti, Director of Policy and Advocacy Jasmine Kainth, and Legal Advisors David Matas, Sarah Teich, John Packer, Clive Ansley, Yonah Diamond, Justine Bernatchez, and Linden Dales. Policy Advisors Charles Burton, Margarett Mccuaig Johnston, Marcus Kolga, Scott Simon, and Research Advisors Conor Healy and Geoffrey Aharon are also included.
From the Canada-Tibet Committee, the sanctions apply to Chair Samphe Lhalungpa, Vice Chair Luisa Durante, Executive Director Sherap Therchin, Board Member Eliza von Baeyer, and Community Engagement Manager Youngdoung Tenzin.
This move is seen as a response to actions taken by Canada concerning issues related to China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Tibet Autonomous Region. The Chinese government has emphasized its stance on safeguarding national sovereignty and opposes external interference in its internal affairs.
Reference(s):
China takes countermeasures against 2 Canadian institutions, 20 people
cgtn.com
