#DualNationality #Embassy
Canadian Foreign Ministry: Hong Kong authorities deny consular access to detainees with dual nationality

On 3 February, 2021, the Canadian Foreign Ministry revealed that Hong Kong has denied consular access to detainees with dual nationals in Hong Kong.

Five diplomats say, however, that consular access to dual nationals had largely been granted by local authorities since Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule more than two decades ago. That is now changing, the diplomats said.

Canada said it received a first notification of a Canadian dual-national prisoner in Hong Kong being required to declare their nationality on Jan 18, 2021. The consulate did not identify the prisoner nor the reason they were in jail.

“We are aware of more such incidences involving dual nationals of other countries,” Canadian foreign ministry spokeswoman Christelle Chartrand said, adding Ottawa had expressed its concern towards the Hong Kong government.

Canadians who wish to receive consular services should present themselves as Canadian to authorities at all times, she said.

Source: Stand News #Feb4
#ConsularServices #CanadianForeignMinistry #Canada