Canada-China (11 August 2021)
France was dismayed to learn of Chinese court decisions upholding Robert Schellenberg’s death sentence and sentencing Michael Spavor to 11 years in prison.
France strongly denounces the arbitrary nature of these verdicts. It reaffirms its wish for the rights of the defense to be rigorously respected and calls for compliance with obligations relating to consular access under the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. France reiterates its unwavering opposition to the death penalty everywhere and in all circumstances.
We reiterate our total solidarity with the Canadian authorities on the situation of these two Canadian citizens, and that of Michael Kovrig. We will continue to monitor these cases with the utmost attention.