After the arrest in China

OTTAWA (AP) — Nearly three years after their arrests in China, Canadian businessmen Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig were released and deported to their home countries.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement on Saturday night – just hours after it was learned that Meng Wanzhou, who has been stranded in Canada for years, would be able to return to her home country of China as a result of a deal. American officials.

Spavor was found guilty of espionage and obtaining state secrets and sentenced to 11 years in prison. The former diplomat also had to answer in a Chinese court on charges of espionage. However, in the end, there was no verdict against him.

Since two Canadians were detained in Canada almost immediately after Meng’s arrest in December 2018, Beijing has been accused of being a return coach and “hostage diplomacy”. Since then, this matter has weighed heavily on the relations between the two countries.

© dpa-infocom, dpa: 210925-99-351974/2

Nearly three years after his arrest in China, Michael Kovrig is deported to his homeland. Photo: uncredited / AP / DPA

© Uncredited (DPA)