Former MP Han Dong and Global News Reach Settlement After Defamation Suit

A significant development has emerged in the ongoing saga surrounding allegations of Chinese interference in Canadian affairs. Former MP Han Dong and Global News have announced a settlement in their defamation lawsuit. The suit stemmed from Global News’ reporting on Mr. Dong’s alleged involvement with the Chinese consulate in Toronto amidst a wave of intelligence leaks in 2023.

The original report claimed that Mr. Dong, then MP for Don Valley North, advocated to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for the extended detention of Canadians Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. Following the report, Mr. Dong left the Liberal Party caucus and initiated legal action against Global News.

In a June 15th statement, Global News acknowledged the findings of the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference’s final report. This report, overseen by Justice Marie Josee Hogue, concluded that the classified information reviewed did not corroborate the claim that Mr. Dong suggested extending the detention of Kovrig and Spavor. The details of the settlement itself remain undisclosed.

This settlement comes at a crucial juncture, as Canada grapples with the implications of the foreign interference inquiry. The case highlights the complexities of reporting on sensitive national security matters and the potential legal ramifications for media organizations and individuals involved.