China Overturns Canadian's Death Sentence, Signaling Diplomatic Thaw After Carney Visit

• China's Supreme People's Court overturned the death sentence of Canadian Robert Schellenberg, convicted of drug smuggling.
• The decision follows Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's recent visit to China, hinting at improved diplomatic relations.
• Schellenberg's death sentence in 2019 escalated tensions after Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou's arrest in Canada.
• The case will return to the Liaoning Provincial High People's Court for a retrial, though acquittal chances are slim.
• China's foreign ministry asserts judicial independence, while analysts link the timing to recent diplomatic engagements and trade agreements.