Canadian intelligence officials told the country’s Foreign Interference Commission on Monday that China "clandestinely and deceptively" interfered in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections. Both national votes were won by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's Liberal Party.
The investigative body, established by Trudeau in September, was created to review allegations that Beijing and possibly other foreign actors were attempting to influence national politics in Canada.
Briefing materials from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) allege that Chinese operatives specifically targeted 7 candidates from the Liberal Party, and 4 from the Conservatives.
The documents described China's intentions as "pragmatic in nature and focused primarily on supporting those viewed to be either 'pro-PRC' or 'neutral' on issues of interest to the PRC government."
Other information presented to the committee has suggested that the CSIS informed the Prime Minister’s office about the matter in early 2023.
While Conservatives have criticized Trudeau for not being forceful enough with China on the issue, the CSIS maintains that their actions did not influence any election outcomes.
In August, Ottawa accused the Chinese government of implementing a disinformation campaign against Conservative MP Michael Chong, a frequent critic of the Communist regime.
Trudeau is expected to testify in front of the committee on Wednesday.
