TORONTO, Canada – François-Philippe Champagne, minister of foreign affairs, issued the following statement on travel to Hubei province in China.
“The safety and security of Canadians abroad is our top priority. Since January 22, Chinese authorities have restricted non-essential travel to and from the city of Wuhan, Hubei province in China as a result of the spread of coronavirus.
“We understand the concerns of Canadians in the region and those of their families and loved ones. We are in contact with and providing assistance to Canadians currently on the ground.
“Canadian consular officials are closely monitoring the situation and are in contact with local authorities and our international partners to gather more information and provide support to the extent possible. Canada does not have a consular presence in Wuhan.
“We continue to advise Canadians to avoid non-essential travel to the province of Hubei, China, including the cities of Wuhan, Huanggang, and Ezhou, due to the heavy travel restrictions that have been imposed. Canadians should check the government of Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories for China before travelling.
“Canadians in the region are encouraged to sign up with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service at travel.gc.ca/registration. This will allow them to receive the latest updates from the Government of Canada.
“Canadians in need of emergency consular assistance can contact the Embassy of Canada to China in Beijing at 86 (10) 5139-4000. Canadians can also call Global Affairs Canada’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa at 1 613 996 8885 or email sos@international.gc.ca.”
