Overview of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou's arrest

World
Europe

01:35

Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Chinese tech giant Huawei, was detained in Canada on the first day of December and faces extradition to the United States on charges of violating the sanctions levied on Iran.

China has demanded Canadian authorities release the senior Huawei telecoms executive. The country's Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Geng Shuang said: "China has made clear its solemn position separately to Canada and the United States, requesting them to immediately clarify the reasons for detention, immediately release the detainee and guarantee the legitimate rights and interests of the person concerned."

Meng appeared in a Canadian court at a bail hearing on December 7, which was adjourned to the following Monday and Tuesday. During this period, the Chinese Foreign Ministry summoned Canadian ambassador John McCallum and U.S. ambassador Terry Branstad lodging complaints and urging for the immediate release of the Huawei executive.

"There are media reports revealing details of Meng Wanzhou's treatment in custody, including possible inhumane measures, such as not providing her with basic medical care. We believe this is inhumane and infringes on her human rights," noted another Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lu Kang.

Meng was finally granted bail with a financial pledge about 7.5 million U.S. dollars after being detained by Canadian authorities for 10 days.

Many are angry with the detention, calling the case a miscarriage of justice. Meng posted to Chinese social media app WeChat soon after her release, saying "I am proud of Huawei and proud of my motherland. Thanks to everyone who has been concerned about me."