<p>Canada Express Entry draw has invited 4,300 candidates under the first round of the healthcare category. On June 27, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 4,300 candidates to the 15th Express Entry Draw 2023. The eligibility criteria for the candidates is a minimum score of 486 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).</p>

<p>In a similar draw, the IRCC invited 4,800 candidates with the same CRS cut-off score on June 8. Canadian authorities use Express Entry's Comprehensive Ranking System to manage skilled worker applications. They rank the candidates according to their CRS scores. It evaluates the applicant and their partner, if married, based on their human capital. After the ranking, the Canadian government invited the applicants to immigrate to their country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In May 2023, IRCC announced a category-based selection of Express Entry candidates. The objective of the Express Entry is to aid specific economic goals. The number of invited candidates varies every year based on the changing priorities of the Canadian immigration system.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-us-does-to-guantanamo-bay-detainees-first-ever-un-report-reveals-610118">Explained: What US does to Guantanamo Bay detainees? First-ever UN report reveals</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>What are the categories listed by Canada Express Entry 2023?</strong></p>

<p>Here's the list of categories chosen for 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>French language proficiency</p>

<p>Healthcare occupation</p>

<p>Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations</p>

<p>Trade occupations</p>

<p>Transport occupations</p>

<p>Agriculture and agri-food occupations</p>

<p>Candidates with the required skill and experience for the occupations mentioned will receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the new draws. However, a sizable portion of the eligible categories is for healthcare and STEM occupations. Healthcare represents nearly half of the invitations. IRCC gave 500 invites in the first category-based selection round under healthcare on June 28. In the second round, they will issue 1,500 more invites on July 5 for healthcare. Furthermore, IRCC will also invite skilled workers with experience in STEM occupations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, candidates with a background in the listed field must also be a part of the Express Entry pool to qualify for an ITA. Although a high CRS remains crucial, category-based selection also brings several opportunities. The highest the CRS, the more the chances of receiving an ITA.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What is Canada Express Entry?</strong></h2>

<p>The Canadian government uses Express Entry as an online application management system for skilled workers who wish to migrate to Canada. It helps the applicants to get permanent residence (PR) in the country. Express Entry is also the fastest pathway into Canada, as the government invites 250,000 economic immigrants through the system each year.</p>

<p>Here's everything you need to know about the latest and upcoming Express Entry draw.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Express Entry Programme: 35 Healthcare occupations</p>

<p>Number of invitations issued: 500</p>

<p>Rank required to apply: 500 or above</p>

<p>Date and time of round: June 28, 14:04:34 UTC</p>

<p>CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 476</p>

<p>Tie-breaking rule: November 12, 12:47:27 UTC</p>

<p>Upcoming number of invitations: 1,500</p>

<p>Date of next Express Entry: July 5</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Canada Express Entry draw has invited 4,300 candidates under the first round of the healthcare category. On June 27, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 4,300 candidates to the 15th Express Entry Draw 2023.

Canada Express Entry draw has invited 4,300 candidates under the first round of the healthcare category. On June 27, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 4,300 candidates to the 15th Express Entry Draw 2023. The eligibility criteria for the candidates is a minimum score of 486 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). In a similar draw, the IRCC invited 4,800 candidates with the same CRS cut-off score on June 8. Canadian authorities use Express Entry's Comprehensive Ranking System to manage skilled worker applications. They rank the candidates according to their CRS scores. It evaluates the applicant and their partner, if married, based on their human capital. After the ranking, the Canadian government invited the applicants to immigrate to their country. In May 2023, IRCC announced a category-based selection of Express Entry candidates. The objective of the Express Entry is to aid specific economic goals. The number of invited candidates varies every year based on the changing priorities of the Canadian immigration system. ALSO READ | Explained: What US does to Guantanamo Bay detainees? First-ever UN report reveals What are the categories listed by Canada Express Entry 2023? Here's the list of categories chosen for 2023. French language proficiency Healthcare occupation Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) occupations Trade occupations Transport occupations Agriculture and agri-food occupations Candidates with the required skill and experience for the occupations mentioned will receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the new draws. However, a sizable portion of the eligible categories is for healthcare and STEM occupations. Healthcare represents nearly half of the invitations. IRCC gave 500 invites in the first category-based selection round under healthcare on June 28. In the second round, they will issue 1,500 more invites on July 5 for healthcare. Furthermore, IRCC will also invite skilled workers with experience in STEM occupations. However, candidates with a background in the listed field must also be a part of the Express Entry pool to qualify for an ITA. Although a high CRS remains crucial, category-based selection also brings several opportunities. The highest the CRS, the more the chances of receiving an ITA. What is Canada Express Entry? The Canadian government uses Express Entry as an online application management system for skilled workers who wish to migrate to Canada. It helps the applicants to get permanent residence (PR) in the country. Express Entry is also the fastest pathway into Canada, as the government invites 250,000 economic immigrants through the system each year. Here's everything you need to know about the latest and upcoming Express Entry draw. Express Entry Programme: 35 Healthcare occupations Number of invitations issued: 500 Rank required to apply: 500 or above Date and time of round: June 28, 14:04:34 UTC CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 476 Tie-breaking rule: November 12, 12:47:27 UTC Upcoming number of invitations: 1,500 Date of next Express Entry: July 5 (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Canada Express Entry 2023: IRCC issues 4,300 invites in the latest draw. Here's all you need to know about it

<p>The US Coast Guard on Wednesday (June 28) said that the experts recovered "presumed human remains" from the wreckage of the Titan submersible that imploded during a dive into the Titanic shipwreck.</p>

<p>"United States medical professionals will conduct a formal analysis of presumed human remains that have been carefully recovered," the agency said in a statement after parts of the wreckage were unloaded in eastern Canada.</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, the recovered debris was offloaded in eastern Canada, bringing to an end a difficult search-and-recovery operation.</p>

<p>That debris will now be taken on board a US Coast Guard cutter to a US port for further analysis, the organisation said.</p>

<p>"There is still a substantial amount of work to be done to understand the factors that led to the catastrophic loss of the Titan and help ensure a similar tragedy does not occur again," said the leader of the US investigation into the tragedy, Captain Jason Neubauer.</p>

<h2><strong>Debris recovered from Titan submersible&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Debris from the Titan submersible which imploded, killing all five on board, was recovered and returned to land by a Canadian-flagged ship. The sub operated by OceanGate Expeditions was on a voyage to see the century-old wreck of the Titanic earlier this month. It went missing soon thereafter, becoming a matter of global concern.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/titan-implosion-was-titanic-submersible-operated-with-a-video-game-controller-607717">Titan implosion: Was Titanic submersible operated with a video-game controller?</a></p>

<p>A report by the news agency Reuters mentioned that a video from the Canadian Broadcast Corporation carried footage from the harbour, which showed the nose of the submersible and some other shattered fragments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The pieces were wrapped in a white tarp and were seen being pulled up by a crane off the Horizon Arctic vessel at St John's Harbour in Newfoundland. Reports mentioned that twisted chunks of the 22-foot submersible were brought ashore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some experts have previously said that the recovery of the debris will be crucial in the investigation to find out what led to the tragic implosion of the submersible, which killed five passengers, including the company OceanGate's CEO Stockton Rush, besides Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman Dawood, Hamish Harding, and Paul-Henri Nargeolet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When the officials announced that the search and rescue mission for the passengers was ended and those on board were "sadly lost", it was said that five major pieces were detected amid the debris around the Titanic site. A nose cone, outside the pressure hull, and a larger debris field were among them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pelagic Research, which operates the robotic vehicle, said in a statement: "Our team has successfully completed off-shore operations, but is still on mission and will be in the process of demobilization from the Horizon Arctic this morning." It declined to comment further, citing confidentiality reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The company also said that they have been working around the clock now for 10 days and are facing physical and mental challenges during this operation. They said they are also anxious to finish the mission and return to their loved ones.</p>

<p>Footage also showed a shattered part of the hull and machinery with dangling wires being taken off the ship at St. John's, where the expedition to the Titanic had set off from.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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The US Coast Guard on Wednesday (June 28) said that the experts recovered "presumed human remains" from the wreckage of the Titan submersible that imploded during a dive into the Titanic shipwreck.

The US Coast Guard on Wednesday (June 28) said that the experts recovered "presumed human remains" from the wreckage of the Titan submersible that imploded during a dive into the Titanic shipwreck. "United States medical professionals will conduct a formal analysis of presumed human remains that have been carefully recovered," the agency said in a statement after parts of the wreckage were unloaded in eastern Canada. Earlier in the day, the recovered debris was offloaded in eastern Canada, bringing to an end a difficult search-and-recovery operation. That debris will now be taken on board a US Coast Guard cutter to a US port for further analysis, the organisation said. "There is still a substantial amount of work to be done to understand the factors that led to the catastrophic loss of the Titan and help ensure a similar tragedy does not occur again," said the leader of the US investigation into the tragedy, Captain Jason Neubauer. Debris recovered from Titan submersible Debris from the Titan submersible which imploded, killing all five on board, was recovered and returned to land by a Canadian-flagged ship. The sub operated by OceanGate Expeditions was on a voyage to see the century-old wreck of the Titanic earlier this month. It went missing soon thereafter, becoming a matter of global concern. Also read: Titan implosion: Was Titanic submersible operated with a video-game controller? A report by the news agency Reuters mentioned that a video from the Canadian Broadcast Corporation carried footage from the harbour, which showed the nose of the submersible and some other shattered fragments. The pieces were wrapped in a white tarp and were seen being pulled up by a crane off the Horizon Arctic vessel at St John's Harbour in Newfoundland. Reports mentioned that twisted chunks of the 22-foot submersible were brought ashore. Some experts have previously said that the recovery of the debris will be crucial in the investigation to find out what led to the tragic implosion of the submersible, which killed five passengers, including the company OceanGate's CEO Stockton Rush, besides Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman Dawood, Hamish Harding, and Paul-Henri Nargeolet. When the officials announced that the search and rescue mission for the passengers was ended and those on board were "sadly lost", it was said that five major pieces were detected amid the debris around the Titanic site. A nose cone, outside the pressure hull, and a larger debris field were among them. Pelagic Research, which operates the robotic vehicle, said in a statement: "Our team has successfully completed off-shore operations, but is still on mission and will be in the process of demobilization from the Horizon Arctic this morning." It declined to comment further, citing confidentiality reasons. The company also said that they have been working around the clock now for 10 days and are facing physical and mental challenges during this operation. They said they are also anxious to finish the mission and return to their loved ones. Footage also showed a shattered part of the hull and machinery with dangling wires being taken off the ship at St. John's, where the expedition to the Titanic had set off from. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Experts recover 'presumed human remains' from Titan sub wreckage

Canada has experienced its worst-ever start to the wildfire season, affecting air quality across North America.

US Cities under air quality alerts amid haze of Canada wildfires

Wildfires burning through large swathes of eastern and western Canada have released a record 160 million tonnes of carbon, the EU's Copernicus Atmospheric Monitoring Service said on Tuesday.

Canadian wildfire emissions hit record high as smoke reaches Europe

<p>Canada has been dragged by Iran to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for allegedly breaching the state immunity of Tehran by designating it as a terrorism-sponsoring state, said the UN's top court on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The listing of the Islamic republic as a terror sponsor in 2012, when Canada had severed its diplomatic ties, shut down its Tehran embassy and asked the Iranian diplomats to leave the country, was challenged by Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran has accused Canada of “alleged violations of its immunities” through a series of diplomatic, political and legal measures which came after the 2012 terror listing, said the Hague-based tribunal in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-talk-with-mutual-understanding-to-cool-tensions-605322">US, Iran talk with mutual 'understanding' to cool tensions</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;In its case, which the International Court of Justice announced on Wednesday, Tehran argued that Canada is “obliged to respect the jurisdictional immunity which Iran enjoys under international law" and should not permit civil claims against Iran "for alleged support to, or acts of, terrorism”.</p>

<h2><strong>Breach of international law, alleges Iran&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Iran stated international law has been breached by Canada by court rulings which asked Iranian assets to be given over to victims of attacks, which were blamed on Tehran-sponsored groups. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, the Hague-based ICJ said that the legal proceedings were launched by Iran against Canada on Tuesday "concerning alleged violations of its immunities" as a sovereign state.</p>

<p>"Canada has adopted and implemented a series of legislative, executive, and judicial measures against Iran and its property in breach of its international obligations," Iran stated in its filing to the court.</p>

<h2><strong>Compensation demanded</strong></h2>

<p>Compensation has been demanded by Iran from Canada for the "violation of its international obligations", and the ICJ has been asked to ask Ottawa to overrule all judgments against Tehran in Canadian courts.</p>

<p>"Iran respectfully requests the Court to adjudge and declare that by failing to respect the immunities of Iran and its property, Canada has violated its international obligations toward Iran," the country added.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Iran-US Nuclear deal: Iran pursuing talks with honour, wisdom and good intentions: President Raisi</strong></p>

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<p>Canada did not react immediately to the case filed by Iran. The case filed is similar to the long-running claim of Iran at the &nbsp;ICJ against the United States for freezing billions of dollars in assets to compensate for the terror attacks.</p>

<p>A Canadian judge in 2016 had ordered the non-diplomatic land and bank accounts of Iran in Canada to be given to victims of attacks carried out by Hamas and Hezbollah.</p>

<p>As per reports, $13 million was awarded, as per the judgement, to the families of Americans who were killed in eight bombings or hostage-takings in Buenos Aires, Israel, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia from 1983 to 2002.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Canada has been dragged by Iran to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for allegedly breaching the state immunity of Tehran by designating it as a terrorism-sponsoring state, said the UN's top court on Wednesday.

Canada has been dragged by Iran to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) for allegedly breaching the state immunity of Tehran by designating it as a terrorism-sponsoring state, said the UN's top court on Wednesday. The listing of the Islamic republic as a terror sponsor in 2012, when Canada had severed its diplomatic ties, shut down its Tehran embassy and asked the Iranian diplomats to leave the country, was challenged by Iran. Iran has accused Canada of “alleged violations of its immunities” through a series of diplomatic, political and legal measures which came after the 2012 terror listing, said the Hague-based tribunal in a statement. ALSO READ | US, Iran talk with mutual 'understanding' to cool tensions In its case, which the International Court of Justice announced on Wednesday, Tehran argued that Canada is “obliged to respect the jurisdictional immunity which Iran enjoys under international law" and should not permit civil claims against Iran "for alleged support to, or acts of, terrorism”. Breach of international law, alleges Iran Iran stated international law has been breached by Canada by court rulings which asked Iranian assets to be given over to victims of attacks, which were blamed on Tehran-sponsored groups. In a statement, the Hague-based ICJ said that the legal proceedings were launched by Iran against Canada on Tuesday "concerning alleged violations of its immunities" as a sovereign state. "Canada has adopted and implemented a series of legislative, executive, and judicial measures against Iran and its property in breach of its international obligations," Iran stated in its filing to the court. Compensation demanded Compensation has been demanded by Iran from Canada for the "violation of its international obligations", and the ICJ has been asked to ask Ottawa to overrule all judgments against Tehran in Canadian courts. "Iran respectfully requests the Court to adjudge and declare that by failing to respect the immunities of Iran and its property, Canada has violated its international obligations toward Iran," the country added. WATCH | Iran-US Nuclear deal: Iran pursuing talks with honour, wisdom and good intentions: President Raisi Canada did not react immediately to the case filed by Iran. The case filed is similar to the long-running claim of Iran at the ICJ against the United States for freezing billions of dollars in assets to compensate for the terror attacks. A Canadian judge in 2016 had ordered the non-diplomatic land and bank accounts of Iran in Canada to be given to victims of attacks carried out by Hamas and Hezbollah. As per reports, $13 million was awarded, as per the judgement, to the families of Americans who were killed in eight bombings or hostage-takings in Buenos Aires, Israel, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia from 1983 to 2002. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Iran drags Canada to UN's top court over terror listing

Smoke from Canada wildfires crosses the Atlantic ocean, darkening skies in South-Western Europe. According to the EU's Copernicus Atmospheric Monitoring Service, Canada wildfires have released a record 160 million tonnes of carbon.

Smoke from Canada's wildfires reaches Europe's skies

Canada's biggest city Toronto makes history by electing a non-white Chinese Canadian Mayor Olivia Chow. She is also the first woman mayor in the city in more than a decade.

Toronto gets its first Chinese-Canadian Mayor

Canada's wildfire smoke reaches Europe, US

Smoke from Canada wildfires cross the Atlantic ocean, darkening skies in South-Western Europe. According to the EU's Copernicus Atmospheric Monitoring Service, Canada wildfires have released a record 160 million tonnes of carbon.

Canadian wildfire smoke reaches Europe; emissions hit record

<p>For the first time, Toronto elected a 'non-white' Chinese-Canadian mayor.&nbsp; Olivia Chow pledged to support renters and social causes and reduce the sweeping powers of her office. Chow will also be the first woman to serve as mayor of the Canadian city since Barbara Hall in 1997.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the preliminary results, the 66-year-old secured&nbsp;some 37.3 per cent votes, defeating her rival Ana Bailao, former deputy mayor, who won 32.5 per cent vote share. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's everything you need to know about Toronto's new mayor:</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Olivia Chow: Early life and political career</strong></h2>

<p>Born in Hong Kong, Chow shifted to Canada when she was just 13. She is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin and English.</p>

<p>In 1988, Chow was married to Jack Layton until his death in August 2011. A year later, Chow unveiled a statue dedicated to her late husband on 20 August 2012, with tributes to him written in English, Chinese and French. The statue is located in Harbour Square Park at the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal.</p>

<p>After completing her studies, she became active in politics, working to win the riding office of NDP P Dan Heap in the 1980s. Later in 1997, she ran as an NDP candidate for the House of Commons in Trinity-Spadina. In 2004, she won the Trinity-Spadina again.</p>

<p>Years later, in 2014, she entered the Toronto mayoral elections, in an attempt to defeat Rob Frod after most polls taken over the previous year suggested that she was best placed to win a head-to-head contest against Ford or a multi-candidate contest. Unfortunately, Chow finished the election race third.</p>

<p>As a prominent and progressive voice in Canada's capital politics, Chow again in April announced her campaign for mayor of Toronto in the 2023 by-election.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>As the next council meeting is scheduled for July 19, here's what Chow promised to do during her election campaign:</h2>

<p><strong>Transit and Housing:</strong></p>

<p>One of the first promises that Chow made was to build a dedicated busway to replace the decommissioned Scarborough RT to the tune of about $60 million. One of the differences between Chow's and her rival's pledge was to raise Toronoto's vacant home tax from one per cent to three per cent.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She promised to build 25,000 homes on city-owned land in the next eight years.</p>

<p><strong>Taxes</strong>:</p>

<p>The municipal land taxes will be increased on homes sold for over $3 million. The money collected from the tax increase will be used to support the homeless. Though Chow didn't mention any specific number, she said that the increase will not be near 25 per cent as proposed by her rival candidates. She said that the tax increase will support city's improvements including reduced waiting time on emergency calls.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Strong Mayor Powers:</strong></p>

<p>One of the most prominent promises, Chow made was that she will not use the strong mayor powers handed to municipal leaders by the Ontario government. These powers allow the mayor to overrule a council decision based on provincial priorities such as housing infrastructure, budget or hiring a certain staff.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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For the first time, Toronto elected a 'non-white' Chinese-Canadian mayor. Olivia Chow pledged to support renters and social causes and reduce the sweeping powers of her office.

For the first time, Toronto elected a 'non-white' Chinese-Canadian mayor. Olivia Chow pledged to support renters and social causes and reduce the sweeping powers of her office. Chow will also be the first woman to serve as mayor of the Canadian city since Barbara Hall in 1997. As per the preliminary results, the 66-year-old secured some 37.3 per cent votes, defeating her rival Ana Bailao, former deputy mayor, who won 32.5 per cent vote share. Here's everything you need to know about Toronto's new mayor: Olivia Chow: Early life and political career Born in Hong Kong, Chow shifted to Canada when she was just 13. She is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin and English. In 1988, Chow was married to Jack Layton until his death in August 2011. A year later, Chow unveiled a statue dedicated to her late husband on 20 August 2012, with tributes to him written in English, Chinese and French. The statue is located in Harbour Square Park at the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. After completing her studies, she became active in politics, working to win the riding office of NDP P Dan Heap in the 1980s. Later in 1997, she ran as an NDP candidate for the House of Commons in Trinity-Spadina. In 2004, she won the Trinity-Spadina again. Years later, in 2014, she entered the Toronto mayoral elections, in an attempt to defeat Rob Frod after most polls taken over the previous year suggested that she was best placed to win a head-to-head contest against Ford or a multi-candidate contest. Unfortunately, Chow finished the election race third. As a prominent and progressive voice in Canada's capital politics, Chow again in April announced her campaign for mayor of Toronto in the 2023 by-election. As the next council meeting is scheduled for July 19, here's what Chow promised to do during her election campaign: Transit and Housing: One of the first promises that Chow made was to build a dedicated busway to replace the decommissioned Scarborough RT to the tune of about $60 million. One of the differences between Chow's and her rival's pledge was to raise Toronoto's vacant home tax from one per cent to three per cent. She promised to build 25,000 homes on city-owned land in the next eight years. Taxes: The municipal land taxes will be increased on homes sold for over $3 million. The money collected from the tax increase will be used to support the homeless. Though Chow didn't mention any specific number, she said that the increase will not be near 25 per cent as proposed by her rival candidates. She said that the tax increase will support city's improvements including reduced waiting time on emergency calls. Strong Mayor Powers: One of the most prominent promises, Chow made was that she will not use the strong mayor powers handed to municipal leaders by the Ontario government. These powers allow the mayor to overrule a council decision based on provincial priorities such as housing infrastructure, budget or hiring a certain staff. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Olivia Chow, Toronto's first Chinese-Canadian mayor? Here's all you need to know

Toronto elects first 'non-white' Mayor

<p>Canadian authorities have arrested Brijesh Mishra, an Indian education agent allegedly involved in a scam of counterfeit Canadian college admission letters.</p>

<p>Mishra, who was attempting to enter Canada, was found inadmissible by border agents and subsequently taken into custody. On Friday, the Canada Border Services Agency charged him with offering immigration advice without a licence and counselling individuals to misrepresent or withhold information from authorities, reported Toronto Star.</p>

<p>Only licensed lawyers and consultants registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants are authorised to provide immigration advice and services for a fee. Neither the Law Society of Ontario nor the consultants' college have any records indicating Mishra's membership, as education agents are not regulated in Canada.</p>

<h2><strong>Mishra's alleged role in issuing fake&nbsp;acceptance letters</strong></h2>

<p>Mishra's arrest and charges follow an international education scam&nbsp;that garnered attention in Canada and India. A group of international students faced deportation when they were found with fake manipulated admission letters to secure study permits. Mishra is accused of issuing fake&nbsp;letters of acceptance to Canadian post-secondary institutions for prospective Indian students.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-safety-regulators-launch-probe-into-titan-submersible-implosion-608213">Canadian safety regulators launch probe into Titan submersible implosion</a></p>

<h2><strong>Students unaware of doctored letters, seek protection</strong></h2>

<p>The affected students, numbering in the hundreds, claim ignorance of the forged admission letters and only discovered the issue when they faced scrutiny from border officials during their postgraduate work permit applications or permanent residence application processes. They contend that they were victims of Mishra and other unscrupulous agents.</p>

<p>In response to the scandal, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the suspension of pending deportations for the impacted Indian international students who alleged deception by Mishra and other fraudulent agents. Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino commended the Canada Border Services Agency's criminal investigators for their efforts in combating fraud while protecting legitimate students pursuing their studies.</p>

<p>The charges against Mishra were filed by the Pacific Region Criminal Investigations Section of the Canada Border Services Agency. Regional Director General Nina Patel expressed appreciation for her officers' diligent investigation and emphasised the agency's commitment to holding lawbreakers accountable.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indian-origin gangs of Canada: Drugs, murders &amp; politics | DARK WORLD</strong></p>

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<p>To address the complex circumstances surrounding each case, senior immigration and border enforcement officials have formed a task force for examining the level of individual students' involvement in defrauding the system.</p>

<p>The immigration department's and border agency's handling of the scam has come under scrutiny. Some students and their supporters staged protests outside the Canada Border Services Agency office in Toronto, demanding answers. The parliamentary immigration committee initiated its own investigation, seeking clarification from immigration and border officials regarding the delayed detection of fake&nbsp;documents and the potential penalisation of innocent students who were unknowingly victims of the scam.</p>

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Canadian authorities have arrested Brijesh Mishra, an Indian education agent allegedly involved in a scam of counterfeit Canadian college admission letters. Mishra, who was attempting to enter Canada, was found inadmissible by border agents and subsequently taken into custody.

Canadian authorities have arrested Brijesh Mishra, an Indian education agent allegedly involved in a scam of counterfeit Canadian college admission letters. Mishra, who was attempting to enter Canada, was found inadmissible by border agents and subsequently taken into custody. On Friday, the Canada Border Services Agency charged him with offering immigration advice without a licence and counselling individuals to misrepresent or withhold information from authorities, reported Toronto Star. Only licensed lawyers and consultants registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants are authorised to provide immigration advice and services for a fee. Neither the Law Society of Ontario nor the consultants' college have any records indicating Mishra's membership, as education agents are not regulated in Canada. Mishra's alleged role in issuing fake acceptance letters Mishra's arrest and charges follow an international education scam that garnered attention in Canada and India. A group of international students faced deportation when they were found with fake manipulated admission letters to secure study permits. Mishra is accused of issuing fake letters of acceptance to Canadian post-secondary institutions for prospective Indian students. Also read | Canadian safety regulators launch probe into Titan submersible implosion Students unaware of doctored letters, seek protection The affected students, numbering in the hundreds, claim ignorance of the forged admission letters and only discovered the issue when they faced scrutiny from border officials during their postgraduate work permit applications or permanent residence application processes. They contend that they were victims of Mishra and other unscrupulous agents. In response to the scandal, Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced the suspension of pending deportations for the impacted Indian international students who alleged deception by Mishra and other fraudulent agents. Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino commended the Canada Border Services Agency's criminal investigators for their efforts in combating fraud while protecting legitimate students pursuing their studies. The charges against Mishra were filed by the Pacific Region Criminal Investigations Section of the Canada Border Services Agency. Regional Director General Nina Patel expressed appreciation for her officers' diligent investigation and emphasised the agency's commitment to holding lawbreakers accountable. Also watch | Indian-origin gangs of Canada: Drugs, murders & politics | DARK WORLD To address the complex circumstances surrounding each case, senior immigration and border enforcement officials have formed a task force for examining the level of individual students' involvement in defrauding the system. The immigration department's and border agency's handling of the scam has come under scrutiny. Some students and their supporters staged protests outside the Canada Border Services Agency office in Toronto, demanding answers. The parliamentary immigration committee initiated its own investigation, seeking clarification from immigration and border officials regarding the delayed detection of fake documents and the potential penalisation of innocent students who were unknowingly victims of the scam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian education agent arrested in Canada in connection with fake admission letters scam

<p>Canadian safety regulators have initiated an investigation into a tragic incident involving a tourist submersible that imploded underwater, resulting in the death of all five individuals on board. The submersible was on a dive to explore the century-old wreckage of the Titanic, highlighting concerns about the lack of regulations governing such expeditions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) of Canada announced on Friday that it would launch a safety investigation into the operation of Titan. This decision was made because the submersible's surface support vessel, the Polar Prince, was a Canadian-flagged ship. A TSB team was dispatched to gather information and conduct interviews in St. John's, Newfoundland, near the accident site, as per Reuters news agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/archaeologists-unearth-4000-year-old-stonehenge-burial-ground-in-the-netherlands-608203">Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands</a></p>

<p>The wreckage of the submersible, named Titan, was discovered on the seabed of the North Atlantic by a remotely operated underwater vehicle deployed by a Canadian search vessel. This find marked the conclusion of a five-day international rescue operation.</p>

<p>According to US Coast Guard Rear Admiral John Mauger, debris from Titan was scattered approximately 1,600 feet (488 meters) away from the bow of the Titanic wreck, at a depth of about 2-1/2 miles (4 km) beneath the surface.</p>

<p>Admiral Mauger stated that the debris indicated a "catastrophic implosion of the vehicle," implying that the 22-foot-long submersible collapsed and was crushed due to the immense hydrostatic pressure at that depth.</p>

<p>Among the deceased was&nbsp;Stockton Rush, the CEO of OceanGate Expeditions, the company operating the submersible. The expedition to the Titanic wreck, which cost $250,000 per person, also included British billionaire and explorer Hamish Harding, Pakistani-born businessman Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman, both British citizens, and French oceanographer Paul-Henri Nargeolet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/google-rolls-out-perspectives-tab-in-major-search-engine-revamp-608201">Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp</a></p>

<p>Some said that Stockton Rush was known for being cautious in managing risks, while others have expressed concerns about the certification process of Titan. The submersible's unique design did not undergo certification from industry third parties such as the American Bureau of Shipping, as per some experts. Some have also questioned the use of carbon fiber for the critical pressure hull, and the decision to use non-industry-standard components, including a video game joystick for control.</p>

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<p>OceanGate's lack of certification and safety issues had been previously highlighted in 2018 during a symposium and in a lawsuit brought by the company's former head of marine operations. The disaster marks the first known fatalities in civilian deep-sea exploration in over 60 years, as international waters beyond government regulation allow companies like OceanGate to operate independently.</p>

<p>The US Coast Guard revealed that the exact timing of the incident is yet to be determined, but the proximity of the debris to the Titanic wreck suggests that the disaster occurred near the end of the submersible's descent on Sunday.</p>

<p>Acoustic data analysed by the US Navy detected an anomaly consistent with an implosion or explosion at the location of the submersible when communication was lost. However, the data was inconclusive, and the search and rescue mission continued.</p>

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Canadian safety regulators have initiated an investigation into a tragic incident involving a tourist submersible that imploded underwater, resulting in the death of all five individuals on board.

Canadian safety regulators have initiated an investigation into a tragic incident involving a tourist submersible that imploded underwater, resulting in the death of all five individuals on board. The submersible was on a dive to explore the century-old wreckage of the Titanic, highlighting concerns about the lack of regulations governing such expeditions. The Transportation Safety Board (TSB) of Canada announced on Friday that it would launch a safety investigation into the operation of Titan. This decision was made because the submersible's surface support vessel, the Polar Prince, was a Canadian-flagged ship. A TSB team was dispatched to gather information and conduct interviews in St. John's, Newfoundland, near the accident site, as per Reuters news agency. Also Read | Archaeologists unearth 4,000-year-old ‘Stonehenge’ burial ground in the Netherlands The wreckage of the submersible, named Titan, was discovered on the seabed of the North Atlantic by a remotely operated underwater vehicle deployed by a Canadian search vessel. This find marked the conclusion of a five-day international rescue operation. According to US Coast Guard Rear Admiral John Mauger, debris from Titan was scattered approximately 1,600 feet (488 meters) away from the bow of the Titanic wreck, at a depth of about 2-1/2 miles (4 km) beneath the surface. Admiral Mauger stated that the debris indicated a "catastrophic implosion of the vehicle," implying that the 22-foot-long submersible collapsed and was crushed due to the immense hydrostatic pressure at that depth. Among the deceased was Stockton Rush, the CEO of OceanGate Expeditions, the company operating the submersible. The expedition to the Titanic wreck, which cost $250,000 per person, also included British billionaire and explorer Hamish Harding, Pakistani-born businessman Shahzada Dawood and his son Suleman, both British citizens, and French oceanographer Paul-Henri Nargeolet. Also Read | Google rolls out 'Perspectives' tab in major search-engine revamp Some said that Stockton Rush was known for being cautious in managing risks, while others have expressed concerns about the certification process of Titan. The submersible's unique design did not undergo certification from industry third parties such as the American Bureau of Shipping, as per some experts. Some have also questioned the use of carbon fiber for the critical pressure hull, and the decision to use non-industry-standard components, including a video game joystick for control. Watch | 'Putin's chef' vs Defence Minister: Where has Wagner operated? × OceanGate's lack of certification and safety issues had been previously highlighted in 2018 during a symposium and in a lawsuit brought by the company's former head of marine operations. The disaster marks the first known fatalities in civilian deep-sea exploration in over 60 years, as international waters beyond government regulation allow companies like OceanGate to operate independently. The US Coast Guard revealed that the exact timing of the incident is yet to be determined, but the proximity of the debris to the Titanic wreck suggests that the disaster occurred near the end of the submersible's descent on Sunday. Acoustic data analysed by the US Navy detected an anomaly consistent with an implosion or explosion at the location of the submersible when communication was lost. However, the data was inconclusive, and the search and rescue mission continued. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Canadian safety regulators launch probe into Titan submersible implosion

<p>Canada's intelligence agency, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), has warned citizens that China was trying to recruit Canadians to spy for it. The agency said that those recruited did not always realise that they were spying for China. In a rare public appeal, CSIS asked Canadians to remain alert and not fall for attempts by the People's Republic of China Intelligence Services (PRCIS) to recruit them as spies.</p>

<p>CSIS described the method used by PRCIS to recruit Canadians. In its Twitter thread, CSIS said that Chinese agents zero in on people searching for jobs in strategic sectors. They then contact them on LinkedIn. The agents pose as HR managers or recruiters.</p>

<p>The conversation soon moves to other platforms like WeChat or WhatsApp. Job seekers are asked to write reports containing sensitive information for their 'clients' or 'consultants'.</p>

<p>CSIS said that these clients and consultants are often Chinese intelligence officers.</p>

<p>Those who are recruited for spying are paid for the reports they write for the Chinese agents.</p>

<p>“Intelligence officers may or may not reveal their true affiliation in order to preserve targets’ plausible deniability,” the agency said.</p>

<p>The warning from the Canadian intelligence has come just one week after the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada's national police force, said that there were "100 plus" ongoing investigations into suspicions of foreign interference. The police chief, however, stopped short of saying how many were connected to China.</p>

<p>The leaked intelligence reports on how, allegedly, China attempted to influence Canadian elections have rocked the country. The allegations say that Chinese intervention was in favour of the ruling Liberal Party. Reports of now-closed Chinese 'police stations' in Canada have raised questions as well.</p>

<p>China has sought to maintain that it has respect for Canada's internal matters and has termed the allegations "politically driven" and belonging to a campaign to "smear China".</p>

<p>Relations between Canada and China are strained after tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats by both countries.&nbsp;</p>

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Canada's intelligence agency, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), has warned citizens that China was trying to recruit Canadians to spy for it. The agency said that those recruited did not always realise that they were spying for China.

Canada's intelligence agency, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), has warned citizens that China was trying to recruit Canadians to spy for it. The agency said that those recruited did not always realise that they were spying for China. In a rare public appeal, CSIS asked Canadians to remain alert and not fall for attempts by the People's Republic of China Intelligence Services (PRCIS) to recruit them as spies. CSIS described the method used by PRCIS to recruit Canadians. In its Twitter thread, CSIS said that Chinese agents zero in on people searching for jobs in strategic sectors. They then contact them on LinkedIn. The agents pose as HR managers or recruiters. The conversation soon moves to other platforms like WeChat or WhatsApp. Job seekers are asked to write reports containing sensitive information for their 'clients' or 'consultants'. CSIS said that these clients and consultants are often Chinese intelligence officers. Those who are recruited for spying are paid for the reports they write for the Chinese agents. “Intelligence officers may or may not reveal their true affiliation in order to preserve targets’ plausible deniability,” the agency said. The warning from the Canadian intelligence has come just one week after the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada's national police force, said that there were "100 plus" ongoing investigations into suspicions of foreign interference. The police chief, however, stopped short of saying how many were connected to China. The leaked intelligence reports on how, allegedly, China attempted to influence Canadian elections have rocked the country. The allegations say that Chinese intervention was in favour of the ruling Liberal Party. Reports of now-closed Chinese 'police stations' in Canada have raised questions as well. China has sought to maintain that it has respect for Canada's internal matters and has termed the allegations "politically driven" and belonging to a campaign to "smear China". Relations between Canada and China are strained after tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats by both countries. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Canada warns citizens about Chinese attempt to recruit spies

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">Meta Platforms Inc&nbsp;(META.O)&nbsp;plans to end access to news on Facebook and Instagram for all users in Canada once a parliament-approved legislation requiring internet giants to pay news publishers comes into effect, the company said on Thursday.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-1">The legislation, known as the Online News Act, was approved by the Senate upper chamber earlier on Thursday and will become law after receiving royal assent from the governor general, a formality.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-2">The legislation was proposed after complaints from Canada's media industry, which wants tighter regulation of tech companies to prevent them from elbowing news businesses out of the online advertising market.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">"Today, we are confirming that news availability will be ended on Facebook and Instagram for all users in Canada prior to the Online News Act taking effect," Meta said in a statement.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4">Facebook had&nbsp;telegraphed&nbsp;such a move for weeks, saying news has&nbsp;no economic value&nbsp;to the company and that its users do not use the platform for news.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-4"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-option-but-to-take-action-malaysia-threatens-meta-over-harmful-content-on-facebook-607736">'No option but to take action...': Malaysia threatens Meta over harmful content on Facebook</a></strong></p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-5">The act outlines rules to force platforms such as Facebook and Alphabet's&nbsp;(GOOGL.O)&nbsp;Google to negotiate commercial deals and pay news publishers for their content, a step similar to a groundbreaking law passed in Australia in 2021.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-6">The U.S. technology companies have said the proposals are unsustainable for their businesses. Google has argued Canada's law is broader than those enacted in Australia and Europe, saying it puts a price on news story links displayed in search results and can apply to outlets that do not produce news.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-7">The search engine giant proposed that the bill be revised to make the displaying of news content, rather than links, as basis for payment and to specify that only businesses that produce news and adhere to journalistic standards are eligible.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-8">A spokesperson Google said on Thursday that the bill remains "unworkable" and that the company was urgently seeking to work with the government "on a path forward."</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-9">Canada's federal government has so far pushed back against suggestions to make changes. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Meta and Google were using "bullying tactics" as they campaign against the legislation.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-9"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Meta's layoffs shrink workforce to 2021 level</strong></p>

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<p>Google and Facebook had also threatened to curtail their services in Australia when a similar rules were passed into law. Both eventually struck deals with Australian media companies after amendments to the legislation were offered.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-11">Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, who introduced the bill last year, said on Thursday that the government "will engage in a regulatory and implementation process" after the legislation comes into effect.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-12">"If the government can't stand up for Canadians against tech giants, who will?" Rodriguez said in a statement.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-13">The heritage ministry has had meetings with Facebook and Google this week, and it looks forward to further discussions, a government spokesperson said.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-14">Danielle Coffey, president of the News Media Alliance global industry group, said the Canadian Parliament "should be applauded for standing up to Big Tech" after the bill's approval in the Senate.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-15">"We are encouraged by the increasing recognition of the need for legal action to ensure just compensation, both in Canada and abroad, and hope to see the United States follow suit," Coffey said.</p>

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Meta Platforms Inc (META.O) plans to end access to news on Facebook and Instagram for all users in Canada once a parliament-approved legislation requiring internet giants to pay news publishers comes into effect, the company said on Thursday.

Meta Platforms Inc (META.O) plans to end access to news on Facebook and Instagram for all users in Canada once a parliament-approved legislation requiring internet giants to pay news publishers comes into effect, the company said on Thursday. The legislation, known as the Online News Act, was approved by the Senate upper chamber earlier on Thursday and will become law after receiving royal assent from the governor general, a formality. The legislation was proposed after complaints from Canada's media industry, which wants tighter regulation of tech companies to prevent them from elbowing news businesses out of the online advertising market. "Today, we are confirming that news availability will be ended on Facebook and Instagram for all users in Canada prior to the Online News Act taking effect," Meta said in a statement. Facebook had telegraphed such a move for weeks, saying news has no economic value to the company and that its users do not use the platform for news. ALSO READ | 'No option but to take action...': Malaysia threatens Meta over harmful content on Facebook The act outlines rules to force platforms such as Facebook and Alphabet's (GOOGL.O) Google to negotiate commercial deals and pay news publishers for their content, a step similar to a groundbreaking law passed in Australia in 2021. The U.S. technology companies have said the proposals are unsustainable for their businesses. Google has argued Canada's law is broader than those enacted in Australia and Europe, saying it puts a price on news story links displayed in search results and can apply to outlets that do not produce news. The search engine giant proposed that the bill be revised to make the displaying of news content, rather than links, as basis for payment and to specify that only businesses that produce news and adhere to journalistic standards are eligible. A spokesperson Google said on Thursday that the bill remains "unworkable" and that the company was urgently seeking to work with the government "on a path forward." Canada's federal government has so far pushed back against suggestions to make changes. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Meta and Google were using "bullying tactics" as they campaign against the legislation. WATCH | Meta's layoffs shrink workforce to 2021 level × Google and Facebook had also threatened to curtail their services in Australia when a similar rules were passed into law. Both eventually struck deals with Australian media companies after amendments to the legislation were offered. Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, who introduced the bill last year, said on Thursday that the government "will engage in a regulatory and implementation process" after the legislation comes into effect. "If the government can't stand up for Canadians against tech giants, who will?" Rodriguez said in a statement. The heritage ministry has had meetings with Facebook and Google this week, and it looks forward to further discussions, a government spokesperson said. Danielle Coffey, president of the News Media Alliance global industry group, said the Canadian Parliament "should be applauded for standing up to Big Tech" after the bill's approval in the Senate. "We are encouraged by the increasing recognition of the need for legal action to ensure just compensation, both in Canada and abroad, and hope to see the United States follow suit," Coffey said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Meta to end news access in Canada after media bill passes

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The recent killing of Jimi Sandhu has brought back the focus on Indo-Candian organised crime rings. Indo-Canadian gangs have been active since the 1980s. They are among the top organised crime groups in Canada. And there's allegedly a link between these gangs and the Khalistan separatist movement. To find out more, Watch DARK WORLD with Harshit Sabarwal.

Indian-origin gangs of Canada: Drugs, murders & politics | DARK WORLD

Plumes of smoke from the Canadian wildfires have turned the American skies hazy. Authorities from New York to Minnesota have issued public health alerts. Citizens have been asked to start using masks again to save themselves from toxic particles in the air. Why did the New York sky turn orange? What caused the wildfires in Canada? Are these fires caused by climate change?

What is causing wildfires? United states on alert| Part 2 WION Wideangle

From Australian Bush Fires to California Wildfires to Amazon Rainforest fires -Which are the deadliest wildfires of all time? Wildfires used to be a rare occurrence, but now they have become more frequent and last longer worldwide. This year it is expected that Nepal will record over 9,000 forest fire cases by the end of 2023. Almost every country is affected, and Every continent is burning.

World's worst wildfires | Part 3 WION Wideangle

Wildfires in Canada have displaced more than 20,000 Canadian residents and as fires rage on millions continue to be affected by smoke. Canada is experiencing its worst wildfire season of the 21st century but how did it all start?

How did exactly Canadian wildfires start? | part 1 WION Wideangle

<p>The Canadian defence minister said on Friday (June 16) that the country is planning to bolster its forces in Latvia by deploying 15 Leopard 2A4M tanks. The move is being made as part of NATO efforts to build a combat-capable brigade in a country which has a border with Russia.</p>

<p>Defence Minister Anita Anand said that the army tank squadron will be fully deployed by fall. She was speaking to reporters from Brussels.</p>

<p>"This will significantly boost the capabilities of the Canada-led NATO battle group in Latvia, ensuring its continued ability to protect the eastern flank of our alliance," Anand said.</p>

<p>Canada has 800 members of its armed forces in Latvia. It is its largest foreign military deployment. The NATO battle group in the European country is made up of contributions from 11 nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Saudi has maintained a cautious stance</strong></p>

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<p>In 2016, NATO decided to boost its military presence in the eastern regions of the alliance as a "deterrence and defence posture".&nbsp;</p>

<p>A year ago, Canada, Latvia and their NATO partners agreed to bolster the force to a brigade.</p>

<p>Canada is also working alongside Latvia to train Ukrainian junior officers on intelligence reconnaissance and battle planning.</p>

<p>Canada has one of the world's largest Ukrainian diaspora. It has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine in its war with Russia. Canada has supplied military and financial assistance to Kyiv since the Russian invasion started in the year 2022.</p>

<h2><strong>Fresh military aid to Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Canada is also a founding member of NATO. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has visited war-time Kyiv twice. Last week, he pledged additional military aid of USD 378.5 million.</p>

<p>"Let me be clear. Canada and all NATO allies will always defend every inch of NATO territory, and we are deploying the necessary capabilities and personnel to make good on that promise," Canadian Defence Minister Anand said.</p>

<p>She spoke with reporters in Ottawa virtually. Brussels hosted meetings of NATO defence ministers on Thursday and Friday.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blasts-air-raid-sirens-greet-african-peace-mission-leaders-visiting-kyiv-605173">Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv</a></strong></p>

<p>Anand expressed confidence in current NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. When asked whom did Canada support as the new NATO chief, Anand declined to give a name.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Stoltenberg's term has already been prolonged three times, and he is due to step down in September after nine years as secretary-general of the military alliance, which has assumed even greater importance since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>"I have full confidence in Secretary General Stoltenberg's leadership," Anand said. "He has been a very steady hand during a time of intensity in Europe and in the global strategic environment."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The Canadian defence minister said on Friday (June 16) that the country is planning to bolster its forces in Latvia by deploying 15 Leopard 2A4M tanks. The move is being made as part of NATO efforts to build a combat-capable brigade in a country which has a border with Russia.

The Canadian defence minister said on Friday (June 16) that the country is planning to bolster its forces in Latvia by deploying 15 Leopard 2A4M tanks. The move is being made as part of NATO efforts to build a combat-capable brigade in a country which has a border with Russia. Defence Minister Anita Anand said that the army tank squadron will be fully deployed by fall. She was speaking to reporters from Brussels. "This will significantly boost the capabilities of the Canada-led NATO battle group in Latvia, ensuring its continued ability to protect the eastern flank of our alliance," Anand said. Canada has 800 members of its armed forces in Latvia. It is its largest foreign military deployment. The NATO battle group in the European country is made up of contributions from 11 nations. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: Saudi has maintained a cautious stance × In 2016, NATO decided to boost its military presence in the eastern regions of the alliance as a "deterrence and defence posture". A year ago, Canada, Latvia and their NATO partners agreed to bolster the force to a brigade. Canada is also working alongside Latvia to train Ukrainian junior officers on intelligence reconnaissance and battle planning. Canada has one of the world's largest Ukrainian diaspora. It has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine in its war with Russia. Canada has supplied military and financial assistance to Kyiv since the Russian invasion started in the year 2022. Fresh military aid to Ukraine Canada is also a founding member of NATO. Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has visited war-time Kyiv twice. Last week, he pledged additional military aid of USD 378.5 million. "Let me be clear. Canada and all NATO allies will always defend every inch of NATO territory, and we are deploying the necessary capabilities and personnel to make good on that promise," Canadian Defence Minister Anand said. She spoke with reporters in Ottawa virtually. Brussels hosted meetings of NATO defence ministers on Thursday and Friday. Also Read | Blasts, air raid sirens greet African ‘peace mission’ leaders visiting Kyiv Anand expressed confidence in current NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. When asked whom did Canada support as the new NATO chief, Anand declined to give a name. Stoltenberg's term has already been prolonged three times, and he is due to step down in September after nine years as secretary-general of the military alliance, which has assumed even greater importance since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. "I have full confidence in Secretary General Stoltenberg's leadership," Anand said. "He has been a very steady hand during a time of intensity in Europe and in the global strategic environment." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Canada to send Leopard-2 tanks to bolster NATO in Latvia

At least 15 people died in one of the worst traffic accidents in recent Canadian history when a semi-trailer truck collided with a small bus carrying elderly passengers in the province of Manitoba. The collision happened at the intersection of Highways 1 and 5, close to Carberry, Manitoba. The semi-trailer was travelling east on Highway One, and the bus carrying the elderly passengers from Dolphin was travelling south on Highway 5.

Canada Highway Crash occurred at intersection of two highways near Carberry

<p dir="ltr">In a significant development that could have far-reaching implications for Canada's international relations, the Canadian government has decided to suspend its involvement with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The decision comes as the government investigates claims of substantial interference from the Chinese government within the institution. The move marks a critical moment in Canada-China relations and raises questions about the future of Canadian infrastructure investments in Asia.</p>

<p>Established in 2016 with its headquarters in Beijing, the AIIB aimed to invest in sustainable infrastructure projects in Asia and beyond. Canada applied for membership in 2016 and formally entered the institution in 2018, committing a 1 percent membership stake worth $995 million. However, recent allegations of Chinese interference have prompted the Canadian government to take action.</p>

<p><strong>Government's Decision</strong></p>

<p>Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland made the announcement, declaring an immediate halt to all government-led activities at the AIIB, Bloomberg reported. This decision comes shortly after the resignation of Bob Pickard, a Canadian national and the AIIB's global head of communications. Pickard took to Twitter to express his concerns, stating that Communist Party members dominate the bank and have a toxic culture. His resignation has further fueled the controversy surrounding the AIIB.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have tendered my resignation as the global comms chief of <a href="https://twitter.com/AIIB_Official?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AIIB_Official</a>. As a patriotic Canadian, this was my only course. The Bank is dominated by Communist Party members and also has one of the most toxic cultures imaginable. I don’t believe that my country’s interests are…</p>
— Bob Pickard (@BobPickard) <a href="https://twitter.com/BobPickard/status/1668871011968663553?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p><strong>Investigation into Chinese Interference</strong></p>

<p>The Canadian government's decision to suspend involvement with the AIIB stems from the need to investigate the alleged Chinese interference. The Department of Finance has been instructed to lead an immediate review of the claims raised and of Canada's overall involvement with the institution, as per a Bloomberg report. This investigation aims to shed light on the extent of Chinese influence within the AIIB and its potential impact on Canadian interests.</p>

<p dir="ltr">This development comes at a time when the Canadian government is already facing criticism over handling alleged Chinese interference in recent Canadian election campaigns.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Future of Canadian Infrastructure Investments</strong></p>

<p>Canada's decision to suspend its involvement with the AIIB raises questions about the future of Canadian infrastructure investments in Asia. As a member of the AIIB, Canada had committed a substantial stake worth $995 million. With the suspension of activities, the Canadian government will likely reassess its participation and the potential risks associated with continued involvement.</p>

<p>Experts cited by Bloomberg suggest that Canada's move to investigate and suspend involvement with the AIIB highlights the growing concerns about Chinese influence on global financial institutions. The outcome of the investigation will determine the path forward for Canada and its engagement with the AIIB. It also underscores the larger geopolitical challenges faced by countries balancing economic interests with national security concerns in an increasingly interconnected world.</p>


In a significant development that could have far-reaching implications for Canada's international relations, the Canadian government has decided to suspend its involvement with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).

In a significant development that could have far-reaching implications for Canada's international relations, the Canadian government has decided to suspend its involvement with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). The decision comes as the government investigates claims of substantial interference from the Chinese government within the institution. The move marks a critical moment in Canada-China relations and raises questions about the future of Canadian infrastructure investments in Asia. Established in 2016 with its headquarters in Beijing, the AIIB aimed to invest in sustainable infrastructure projects in Asia and beyond. Canada applied for membership in 2016 and formally entered the institution in 2018, committing a 1 percent membership stake worth $995 million. However, recent allegations of Chinese interference have prompted the Canadian government to take action. Government's Decision Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland made the announcement, declaring an immediate halt to all government-led activities at the AIIB, Bloomberg reported. This decision comes shortly after the resignation of Bob Pickard, a Canadian national and the AIIB's global head of communications. Pickard took to Twitter to express his concerns, stating that Communist Party members dominate the bank and have a toxic culture. His resignation has further fueled the controversy surrounding the AIIB. I have tendered my resignation as the global comms chief of @AIIB_Official. As a patriotic Canadian, this was my only course. The Bank is dominated by Communist Party members and also has one of the most toxic cultures imaginable. I don’t believe that my country’s interests are… — Bob Pickard (@BobPickard) June 14, 2023 Investigation into Chinese Interference The Canadian government's decision to suspend involvement with the AIIB stems from the need to investigate the alleged Chinese interference. The Department of Finance has been instructed to lead an immediate review of the claims raised and of Canada's overall involvement with the institution, as per a Bloomberg report. This investigation aims to shed light on the extent of Chinese influence within the AIIB and its potential impact on Canadian interests. This development comes at a time when the Canadian government is already facing criticism over handling alleged Chinese interference in recent Canadian election campaigns. Future of Canadian Infrastructure Investments Canada's decision to suspend its involvement with the AIIB raises questions about the future of Canadian infrastructure investments in Asia. As a member of the AIIB, Canada had committed a substantial stake worth $995 million. With the suspension of activities, the Canadian government will likely reassess its participation and the potential risks associated with continued involvement. Experts cited by Bloomberg suggest that Canada's move to investigate and suspend involvement with the AIIB highlights the growing concerns about Chinese influence on global financial institutions. The outcome of the investigation will determine the path forward for Canada and its engagement with the AIIB. It also underscores the larger geopolitical challenges faced by countries balancing economic interests with national security concerns in an increasingly interconnected world.

Canada suspends involvement with China-backed bank amid interference probe

In a significant development, Canada has decided to suspend its involvement with the Asian infrastructure investment bank, also known as the AIIB. Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland made the announcement today, declaring an immediate halt to all government-led activities at the bank. This move comes as the Canadian government launches an investigation into alleged substantial interference from the Chinese government within the institution.

Canada pulls plug on AIIB, probes Chinese influence | World Business Watch

<p>Canadian authorities, in a recent development, have decided against the immediate deportation of Indian students who were ensnared in an alleged immigration scam, wherein they arrived in the country with fraudulent university admission letters, as per media reports.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Canada's immigration minister Sean Fraser on Wednesday said that a task force has been established to thoroughly investigate each case.&nbsp;The primary objective is to distinguish between genuine students and those who tried to game the system and carried out this fraud. Those found to be complicit in the scam will face legal prosecution under Canadian law, the immigration minister said.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-lg-reviews-amarnath-yatra-arrangements-in-pahalgam-over-60k-troops-to-be-deployed-for-security-604339">India: LG reviews Amarnath Yatra arrangements in Pahalgam, over 60k troops to be deployed for security</a></p>

<p>"Only those candidates found genuine or victims of fraud will be allowed to stay in Canada. But those found to be guilty will be prosecuted under Canadian law," he said as quoted by media portals.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Ma déclaration concernant la situation à laquelle sont confrontés les étudiants internationaux ayant reçu des lettres d'acceptation frauduleuses: <a href="https://t.co/nbNw3yAcma">https://t.co/nbNw3yAcma</a>. Votre bien-être reste notre priorité, et on prend des mesures pour résoudre ce problème. Sommaire ci-dessous.</p>
— Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanFraserMP/status/1669041098465898497?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Temporary suspension of deportation</strong></h2>

<p>The Canadian government last week temporarily halted the deportation of these students following protests against their forced repatriation. However, the future course of action and the duration of this relief were not immediately clarified.</p>

<h2><strong>Scam background</strong></h2>

<p>The Canada Border Services Agency recently issued deportation notices to approximately 700 Indian students, primarily from Punjab, after discovering that their admission letters to Canadian universities were counterfeit.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shark-that-ate-russian-tourist-on-camera-to-be-mummified-put-on-display-604333">Shark that ate Russian tourist on camera to be mummified, put on display</a></p>

<p>While most of these students arrived in Canada in 2018, the issue of fake letters only came to light five years later when they applied for permanent residency.</p>

<h2><strong>Government stance, international support</strong></h2>

<p>This issue garnered attention in the Canadian parliament, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasising the need to identify the culprits rather than penalise the victims. Trudeau expressed support for the victims, stating that they would have an opportunity to present evidence in their defence. He also acknowledged the substantial contributions made by international students to the country.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK Police seek motive for Nottingham murders, man arrested after police finds three dead</strong></p>

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<p>"Victims of this fraud will have an opportunity to demonstrate and present evidence for their case. We recognise the immense contributions that the international students bring to our country," Trudeau had said at the time.</p>

<p>Furthermore, India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar previously stated that the Indian government raised the matter with Canadian authorities. It was agreed upon that it would be unfair to deport the students if they were innocent parties in the scam.</p>

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Canadian authorities, in a recent development, have decided against the immediate deportation of Indian students who were ensnared in an alleged immigration scam, wherein they arrived in the country with fraudulent university admission letters, as per media reports.

Canadian authorities, in a recent development, have decided against the immediate deportation of Indian students who were ensnared in an alleged immigration scam, wherein they arrived in the country with fraudulent university admission letters, as per media reports. Canada's immigration minister Sean Fraser on Wednesday said that a task force has been established to thoroughly investigate each case. The primary objective is to distinguish between genuine students and those who tried to game the system and carried out this fraud. Those found to be complicit in the scam will face legal prosecution under Canadian law, the immigration minister said. Also Read | India: LG reviews Amarnath Yatra arrangements in Pahalgam, over 60k troops to be deployed for security "Only those candidates found genuine or victims of fraud will be allowed to stay in Canada. But those found to be guilty will be prosecuted under Canadian law," he said as quoted by media portals. Ma déclaration concernant la situation à laquelle sont confrontés les étudiants internationaux ayant reçu des lettres d'acceptation frauduleuses: https://t.co/nbNw3yAcma. Votre bien-être reste notre priorité, et on prend des mesures pour résoudre ce problème. Sommaire ci-dessous. — Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) June 14, 2023 × Temporary suspension of deportation The Canadian government last week temporarily halted the deportation of these students following protests against their forced repatriation. However, the future course of action and the duration of this relief were not immediately clarified. Scam background The Canada Border Services Agency recently issued deportation notices to approximately 700 Indian students, primarily from Punjab, after discovering that their admission letters to Canadian universities were counterfeit. Also Read | Shark that ate Russian tourist on camera to be mummified, put on display While most of these students arrived in Canada in 2018, the issue of fake letters only came to light five years later when they applied for permanent residency. Government stance, international support This issue garnered attention in the Canadian parliament, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasising the need to identify the culprits rather than penalise the victims. Trudeau expressed support for the victims, stating that they would have an opportunity to present evidence in their defence. He also acknowledged the substantial contributions made by international students to the country. Watch | UK Police seek motive for Nottingham murders, man arrested after police finds three dead × "Victims of this fraud will have an opportunity to demonstrate and present evidence for their case. We recognise the immense contributions that the international students bring to our country," Trudeau had said at the time. Furthermore, India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar previously stated that the Indian government raised the matter with Canadian authorities. It was agreed upon that it would be unfair to deport the students if they were innocent parties in the scam. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Indian students not to be deported immediately, task force to investigate: Canadian minister

<p>Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Wednesday (June 14) that Canada is freezing ties with the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) while it probes allegations that it is dominated by the Chinese Communist Party. Freeland said she did not rule out any outcome of the investigation. There are chances that Ottawa will pull out of the bank it officially joined in 2018.</p>

<p>AIIB's global communications director, a Canadian, announced Wednesday that he had resigned from his position and criticised that the bank was "dominated by the Communist Party". AIIB has said that the allegation was baseless and disappointing.</p>

<p>"The Government of Canada will immediately halt all government-led activity at the bank. And I have instructed the Department of Finance to lead an immediate review of the allegations raised and of Canada's involvement in the AIIB," Freeland told reporters.</p>

<p>She said as the world's democracies worked to limit their strategic vulnerabilities to authoritarian regimes, they must be clear about the ways such governments exercised their influence.</p>

<p>"The review I am announcing today is to be undertaken expeditiously. And I am not ruling out any outcome following its completion," she said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | World bank chief on US China rivalry</strong></p>

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<p>Reuters reported&nbsp;the Chinese embassy in Ottawa as saying in an email that "the claim that AIIB is controlled by the Communist Party of China&nbsp;is nothing but a lie".</p>

<p>PM Justin Trudeau was in office when Canada joined AIIB. He had attracted criticism from the Conservatives in the opposition. They have long demanded that Ottawa pull out of the bank, alleging&nbsp;that the bank is a tool for China to export authoritarianism.</p>

<p>Canada's relations with China have been frosty for the last five years. Canadian finance minister's remarks mark a new low in relations between the two countries.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/dont-see-china-as-a-rival-new-world-bank-chief-ajay-banga-604676">'Don't see China as a rival': New World Bank chief Ajay Banga</a></strong></p>

<p>The Royal Canadian Mounted Police on Tuesday said that it was investigating allegations that China attempted to intimidate a Canadian federal Conservative legislator. Canada, in the&nbsp;past, has accused China of trying to interfere in its affairs in many ways. This includes illegal police stations and other means. Beijing denies all such allegations.</p>

<h2><strong>What former communications chief said</strong></h2>

<p>Bob Pickard, a former communications chief at AIIB told AFP that he left China hastily over concerns for his safety.</p>

<p>Speaking from Tokyo, he said the bank "serves China's interest" and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) wields "undue" influence over every aspect of its operations.</p>

<p>"It's a resource to the geopolitical goals of the PRC (People's Republic of China)... in practice, I believe it serves China's interest," he told AFP.</p>

<p>He said that AIIB directed its lending mainly to countries China is focussing on to set up its massive Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).</p>

<p>"These are not disconnected ventures, the Belt and Road initiative and the AIIB... these are similar kinds of countries that China has been trying to cultivate politically."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Wednesday (June 14) that Canada is freezing ties with the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) while it probes allegations that it is dominated by the Chinese Communist Party.

Canadian Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said on Wednesday (June 14) that Canada is freezing ties with the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) while it probes allegations that it is dominated by the Chinese Communist Party. Freeland said she did not rule out any outcome of the investigation. There are chances that Ottawa will pull out of the bank it officially joined in 2018. AIIB's global communications director, a Canadian, announced Wednesday that he had resigned from his position and criticised that the bank was "dominated by the Communist Party". AIIB has said that the allegation was baseless and disappointing. "The Government of Canada will immediately halt all government-led activity at the bank. And I have instructed the Department of Finance to lead an immediate review of the allegations raised and of Canada's involvement in the AIIB," Freeland told reporters. She said as the world's democracies worked to limit their strategic vulnerabilities to authoritarian regimes, they must be clear about the ways such governments exercised their influence. "The review I am announcing today is to be undertaken expeditiously. And I am not ruling out any outcome following its completion," she said. Watch | World bank chief on US China rivalry × Reuters reported the Chinese embassy in Ottawa as saying in an email that "the claim that AIIB is controlled by the Communist Party of China is nothing but a lie". PM Justin Trudeau was in office when Canada joined AIIB. He had attracted criticism from the Conservatives in the opposition. They have long demanded that Ottawa pull out of the bank, alleging that the bank is a tool for China to export authoritarianism. Canada's relations with China have been frosty for the last five years. Canadian finance minister's remarks mark a new low in relations between the two countries. Also Read | 'Don't see China as a rival': New World Bank chief Ajay Banga The Royal Canadian Mounted Police on Tuesday said that it was investigating allegations that China attempted to intimidate a Canadian federal Conservative legislator. Canada, in the past, has accused China of trying to interfere in its affairs in many ways. This includes illegal police stations and other means. Beijing denies all such allegations. What former communications chief said Bob Pickard, a former communications chief at AIIB told AFP that he left China hastily over concerns for his safety. Speaking from Tokyo, he said the bank "serves China's interest" and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) wields "undue" influence over every aspect of its operations. "It's a resource to the geopolitical goals of the PRC (People's Republic of China)... in practice, I believe it serves China's interest," he told AFP. He said that AIIB directed its lending mainly to countries China is focussing on to set up its massive Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). "These are not disconnected ventures, the Belt and Road initiative and the AIIB... these are similar kinds of countries that China has been trying to cultivate politically." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Canada suspends ties with Chinese-led AIIB over allegations of Communist domination

<p>Canada's Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser, on Wednesday, announced that the country will suspend the planned deportation of dozens of students who had entered Canada using fraudulent university acceptance letters. However, organisations advocating for the affected students call the announcement "a temporary step in the right direction" and&nbsp;stressed the urgent need for a permanent solution through regularisation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wednesday's decision comes after reports by the Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) revealed that a group of students from India had received deportation notices for using counterfeit documents as part of an alleged immigration scheme.</p>

<h2><strong>Fraudulent University letters</strong></h2>

<p>In March, a CBC report revealed that the students entered Canada using acceptance letters from universities that appear to be authentic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, as per the Canada Border Services Agency, the documents were fake. The Indian students were warned that they face potential deportation.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-students-not-to-be-deported-immediately-task-force-to-investigate-canadian-minister-604530">Indian students not to be deported immediately, task force to investigate: Canadian minister</a></strong></p>

<p>The students claim they were unaware of the forgery and have attributed the alleged fraud to immigration agents based in India who assisted them in the application process. Advocates and the affected students have since requested a halt to the deportations.</p>

<h2><strong>Planned deportations and a special task force</strong></h2>

<p>As per a Reuters report, without specifying the exact number of individuals involved, Fraser said that a special task force will review each case of the&nbsp;students facing deportation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that "any pending removals will be halted in the interim, and there will be a temporary permission to stay over the course of this period of consideration."</p>

<h2><strong>A temporary step</strong></h2>

<p>Supporting the affected students, the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change has been advocating for their cause, highlighting the years they have spent in Canada.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sarom Rho, an organiser, expressed cautious approval of the recent announcement, calling it a temporary step in the right direction.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-students-launch-indefinite-protests-in-canada-amid-growing-threat-of-deportation-599778">Duped students launch indefinite protests in Canada amid looming threat of deportation</a></strong></p>

<p>"Today's announcement seems like a temporary step in the right direction. What is urgently needed is a permanent solution through regularisation of these students and all undocumented people who through no fault of their own have been deprived of their rights."</p>

<h2><strong>Canada and foreign students</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters reports that as per official data in 2022, Canada hosted over 800,000 foreign students with active visas. Approximately 320,000 of these students hailed from India.</p>

<p>Canada is a popular choice for international students due to the relatively straightforward and easy process of obtaining a work permit.</p>

<p>Students interviewed by the CBC recounted that after arriving in Canada, the agents informed them that they could not attend the institution mentioned in the acceptance letter. Instead, they were redirected to private colleges. The fraudulent scheme was uncovered when the students completed their studies and subsequently applied for work permits or permission to remain in Canada.</p>

<h2><strong>What will now happen to these students?</strong></h2>

<p>Fraser assured that "those international students who are genuine applicants that came to Canada to study and were victimised by fraudsters will be permitted to remain in Canada."&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further emphasised that those complicit in the fraudulent scheme would be held accountable, with authorities investigating individuals who arrived in Canada and immediately started working rather than pursuing their studies.&nbsp;"Those who are complicit in a fraudulent scheme will be held accountable."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Canada's Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser, on Wednesday, announced that the country will suspend the planned deportation of dozens of students who had entered Canada using fraudulent university acceptance letters.

Canada's Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser, on Wednesday, announced that the country will suspend the planned deportation of dozens of students who had entered Canada using fraudulent university acceptance letters. However, organisations advocating for the affected students call the announcement "a temporary step in the right direction" and stressed the urgent need for a permanent solution through regularisation. Wednesday's decision comes after reports by the Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) revealed that a group of students from India had received deportation notices for using counterfeit documents as part of an alleged immigration scheme. Fraudulent University letters In March, a CBC report revealed that the students entered Canada using acceptance letters from universities that appear to be authentic. However, as per the Canada Border Services Agency, the documents were fake. The Indian students were warned that they face potential deportation. Also read | Indian students not to be deported immediately, task force to investigate: Canadian minister The students claim they were unaware of the forgery and have attributed the alleged fraud to immigration agents based in India who assisted them in the application process. Advocates and the affected students have since requested a halt to the deportations. Planned deportations and a special task force As per a Reuters report, without specifying the exact number of individuals involved, Fraser said that a special task force will review each case of the students facing deportation. He added that "any pending removals will be halted in the interim, and there will be a temporary permission to stay over the course of this period of consideration." A temporary step Supporting the affected students, the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change has been advocating for their cause, highlighting the years they have spent in Canada. Sarom Rho, an organiser, expressed cautious approval of the recent announcement, calling it a temporary step in the right direction. Also read | Duped students launch indefinite protests in Canada amid looming threat of deportation "Today's announcement seems like a temporary step in the right direction. What is urgently needed is a permanent solution through regularisation of these students and all undocumented people who through no fault of their own have been deprived of their rights." Canada and foreign students Reuters reports that as per official data in 2022, Canada hosted over 800,000 foreign students with active visas. Approximately 320,000 of these students hailed from India. Canada is a popular choice for international students due to the relatively straightforward and easy process of obtaining a work permit. Students interviewed by the CBC recounted that after arriving in Canada, the agents informed them that they could not attend the institution mentioned in the acceptance letter. Instead, they were redirected to private colleges. The fraudulent scheme was uncovered when the students completed their studies and subsequently applied for work permits or permission to remain in Canada. What will now happen to these students? Fraser assured that "those international students who are genuine applicants that came to Canada to study and were victimised by fraudsters will be permitted to remain in Canada." He further emphasised that those complicit in the fraudulent scheme would be held accountable, with authorities investigating individuals who arrived in Canada and immediately started working rather than pursuing their studies. "Those who are complicit in a fraudulent scheme will be held accountable." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Canada: Migrant advocacy group calls Indian students' deportation halt 'temporary step in the right direction'

There's at least some temporary relief for hundreds of Indian students facing deportation from Canada after they raised protests, the process to deport them has been put on hold for now. Reports say Canadian authorities have now decided not to take immediate action.

Canada: Indian students deportation on hold, students from Punjab duped by local agents | WION

Canada is experiencing its worst wildfire season of the 21st century. 2022 was the second-worst wildfire season in Europe. From Australia to Asia & South America- Every Continent is engulfed. Watch Trail of Flames: Wildfires on WION Wideangle.

Trail of flames: Wildfires | WION Wideangle

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<p>The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has opened an investigation into allegations that China intimidated a member of parliament and his family. Beijing purportedly targeted Conservative MP Michael Chong, who is of Chinese origin, for his anti-China stance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said he was made aware of the allegations only recently, despite the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) drafting a memo on the issue in 2021.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"When we were made aware of it, we approached Mr Chong and began the investigation," said Duheme, adding, "Any matters that can be charged, any person that can be charged with the Criminal Code, we will do so."</p>

<p>Duheme said Chong's case is one of more than 100 investigations that the Canadian police have launched on alleged foreign interference in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did Chong do?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, Chong has been a staunch supporter of Uyghur rights. In 2021, he also lent his support to a successful motion that said that the ongoing human rights abuse by China on its Uyghur minority accounts for genocide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the Canadian intelligence report from 2021 quoted by the country's Globe and Mail newspaper, China's intelligence agency requested details about Chong and his family. The intimidation effort was made in order to stomp down China's authority by making "an example" and also to "deter others from taking an anti-PRC position," the paper reported.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-on-camera-xi-jinping-confronts-justin-trudeau-534862"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas | On Camera: Xi Jinping confronts Justin Trudeau</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-want-to-know-canadas-opposition-parties-calls-for-inquiry-into-chinese-interference-in-elections-567569#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>Apart from Chong, former Conservative party leader&nbsp;Erin O'Toole has also&nbsp;claimed he had been the target of a misinformation and "voter suppression" campaign by the Chinese government. He made the statement during a session in the House of Commons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Beijing retaliated saying,&nbsp;"China strongly urges the Canadian side to immediately stop this self-directed political farce."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-targeting-canadian-lawmaker-amid-diplomat-expulsion-row-589032" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | China denies targeting Canadian lawmaker amid diplomat expulsion row</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>China's interference in Canada</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from allegedly interfering in Canada's electoral system and intimidating politicians, China has been accused of opening illegal police stations across the North American country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These police stations are affiliated with the Public Security Bureau (PSB) and have been set up to antagonise China’s adversaries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When confronted by the authorities, China shrugged off the responsibility, saying these facilities are “vocational skill training centres”. The Chinese government claims that these police stations are essential for citizens living abroad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, in December last year, news reports claimed that Chinese officials had access to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's communication system. After the controversy snowballed, Trudeau vowed to review the contract, awarded to a firm with links to China to supply and maintain police radios.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has opened an investigation into allegations that China intimidated a member of parliament and his family. Beijing purportedly targeted Conservative MP Michael Chong, who is of Chinese origin, for his anti-China stance.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has opened an investigation into allegations that China intimidated a member of parliament and his family. Beijing purportedly targeted Conservative MP Michael Chong, who is of Chinese origin, for his anti-China stance. RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme said he was made aware of the allegations only recently, despite the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) drafting a memo on the issue in 2021. "When we were made aware of it, we approached Mr Chong and began the investigation," said Duheme, adding, "Any matters that can be charged, any person that can be charged with the Criminal Code, we will do so." Duheme said Chong's case is one of more than 100 investigations that the Canadian police have launched on alleged foreign interference in the country. What did Chong do? Notably, Chong has been a staunch supporter of Uyghur rights. In 2021, he also lent his support to a successful motion that said that the ongoing human rights abuse by China on its Uyghur minority accounts for genocide. As per the Canadian intelligence report from 2021 quoted by the country's Globe and Mail newspaper, China's intelligence agency requested details about Chong and his family. The intimidation effort was made in order to stomp down China's authority by making "an example" and also to "deter others from taking an anti-PRC position," the paper reported. WATCH | Gravitas | On Camera: Xi Jinping confronts Justin Trudeau × Apart from Chong, former Conservative party leader Erin O'Toole has also claimed he had been the target of a misinformation and "voter suppression" campaign by the Chinese government. He made the statement during a session in the House of Commons. However, Beijing retaliated saying, "China strongly urges the Canadian side to immediately stop this self-directed political farce." Also read | China denies targeting Canadian lawmaker amid diplomat expulsion row China's interference in Canada Apart from allegedly interfering in Canada's electoral system and intimidating politicians, China has been accused of opening illegal police stations across the North American country. These police stations are affiliated with the Public Security Bureau (PSB) and have been set up to antagonise China’s adversaries. When confronted by the authorities, China shrugged off the responsibility, saying these facilities are “vocational skill training centres”. The Chinese government claims that these police stations are essential for citizens living abroad. Moreover, in December last year, news reports claimed that Chinese officials had access to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's communication system. After the controversy snowballed, Trudeau vowed to review the contract, awarded to a firm with links to China to supply and maintain police radios. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Canadian police open investigation into claims China intimidated MPs

Canada has blamed China for meddling in its elections. In the latest, Canada's police has opened a probe into allegations that China sought to intimidate a Member of Parliament and his family members as well.

Canada blames China of meddling in polls, latter hits back & accuses former of defamation | WION

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