Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday accused China of trying to interfere in the country’s elections and influence its policy.

According to information from the Canadian information network Global News, the Canadian intelligence service has identified a “clandestine network” of candidates supported by Beijing in the recent elections. At least 11 candidates ran Chinese-funded campaigns in the 2019 federal election, officials told Trudeau.

+ Trudeau defends himself after singing Queen ahead of Queen Elizabeth’s funeral

+ Canadian parliamentarians reject the break with the British monarchy

According to local media, the operation, which was allegedly orchestrated in the Chinese consulate in Toronto, also infiltrated agents into the offices of Canadian representatives with the aim of “co-opting and bribing” government officials and gaining influence in circles. Canadian politicians.

The attempted interference allegedly targeted the country’s two main political parties: the Prime Minister’s Liberal Party and the opposition Conservative Party. However, it is not known whether the operation was successful.

“Unfortunately, we see countries, state actors around the world, whether it’s China or others, continuing to play aggressive games with our institutions, with our democracies,” Trudeau said at a conference. press.

The premier added that the government will continue to take steps to strengthen the integrity of the country’s electoral processes and fight foreign interference in Toronto’s democracy.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said he had “no interest” in Canada’s internal affairs.

+ Xi Jinping says he is ready to work with the United States for mutual benefit

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian denied the allegations, saying China had no interest in meddling in Canadian elections.

“Canada must stop making comments that harm relations with China,” Zhao said.

Last month, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said it was investigating reports that Beijing had set up unofficial “police stations” on Canadian soil.

The same activity has been reported in several European countries, including Ireland and the Netherlands, which have ordered China to close police stations.

Dutch media have found evidence that so-called overseas gas stations, which promise to provide diplomatic services, were being used in an attempt to silence Chinese dissidents in Europe.