China Denies Election Interference Allegations Amid Canadian Security Concerns:

China has rejected allegations of interference in Canada’s internal affairs, asserting that it strictly follows the principle of non-interference in other countries’ domestic matters.

Responding to concerns raised by Canadian intelligence, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that China has never shown interest in meddling in Canada's internal issues. “China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries,” Guo said.

The statement follows a warning from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), which suggested that China and India are likely to attempt interference in Canada’s upcoming general election scheduled for April 28. CSIS also mentioned Russia and Pakistan as having potential to do the same.

Tensions between Ottawa and both Beijing and New Delhi have already been strained. Both countries have previously denied any involvement in election interference. Allegations resurfaced following a final report published in January from an official inquiry into Canada's 2019 and 2021 federal elections. While foreign interference was noted, the investigation found that the outcomes of the elections remained unaffected.

Vanessa Lloyd, deputy director of operations at CSIS, also highlighted that foreign state actors are increasingly using artificial intelligence to influence democratic processes and manipulate public opinion, according to Reuters.

As Canada approaches its next federal election, concerns over cybersecurity and foreign influence remain a key national security issue.