China-Canada: Geopolitical Tug of War over Huawei’s CFO Detention

What is one to make out of China’s silent war with Canada over detention of Meng Wanzhou, the chief financial officer of Huawei? The answer depends on whom you ask. Apparently, the ongoing geopolitical and geo-economic tensions between China and the United States are impacting other countries dealings with China including Canada and Australia, for instance.

Canada is of great importance in this discussion given the upcoming decision in August of Justice Heather Holmes of the Supreme Court of British Columbia whether to extradite Meng to the US. Of note: On December 1, 2018, Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) arrested Meng at Vancouver airport as she was transiting to Mexico. Her arrest made the news all over the world.

One thing is sure: As it stands, no one knows which way Justice Holmes will rule in this case. What is certain, however, is that the court’s decision on Meng’s case will contribute to a growing geopolitical tensions between the US and China – with Canada caught in the middle.

David Oualaalou is a Geopolitical Consultant, Award Winning Educator, Veteran, Author, and former International Security analyst in Washington, D.C.