Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday (June 2) described the situation in the wildfire-ravaged country as 'scary'. Canada is currently confronting one of its worst starts to wildfire season.

"This is a scary time", he said.

On Friday, a coastal city in Quebec ordered some 10,000 of its residents to evacuate their homes. The wildfires are spreading in eastern Canada and firefighting resources are already stretched tackling the fires across the country.

The wildfires have scorched more than 2.7 million hectares of land so far this year across Canada. This is equal to more than five million football fields, according to federal Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair. That's more than ten times the average area typically burned by this time of year over the past decade.

Blair said in a briefing on Friday morning that there were 214 fires burning across Canada out of which 93 are out of control. 29,000 people have been evacuated.

Wildfires are common in Canada's western provinces, but this year the eastern province of Nova Scotia is reeling from its worst-ever wildfire season.

The province on the Atlantic coast has had nearly 200 wildfires. These have burned more than 19,000 hectares and have displaced more than 25,000 people. For comparison, there were 152 wildfires that burned 3380 hectares in the year 2022.

<h2>Evacuation in Quebec</h2>

Stephane Lauzon, a member of Parliament from Quebec, told a news conference in Ottawa that as many as 10,000 residents, or one-third of the population of Sept Iles would be displaced.

Steeve Beaupre, mayor of Sept Iles on St Lawrence River declared a local state of emergency. He announced a mandatory evacuation as wildfires nearby "advanced very quickly" overnight.

In the morning, the residents were asked to vacate their homes by 4 pm local time (2100 GMT).

Earlier, on Thursday, 500 residents from Chapais in the north of the province were evacuated.

"The situation is quickly changing in Quebec," Lauzon said, adding that about 100 fires, "many more than yesterday," were burning in the province, including about 20 out of control.

Wildfires started after major flareups in the west of the country in May, mainly in the Prairies provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wildfires-continue-to-displace-thousands-599334">Canada: Massive wildfires continue to displace thousands</a>

In the past week, firefighting shifted to Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast.

(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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday (June 2) described the situation in the wildfire-ravaged country as 'scary'. Canada is currently confronting one of its worst starts to wildfire season.

Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday (June 2) described the situation in the wildfire-ravaged country as 'scary'. Canada is currently confronting one of its worst starts to wildfire season. "This is a scary time", he said. On Friday, a coastal city in Quebec ordered some 10,000 of its residents to evacuate their homes. The wildfires are spreading in eastern Canada and firefighting resources are already stretched tackling the fires across the country. The wildfires have scorched more than 2.7 million hectares of land so far this year across Canada. This is equal to more than five million football fields, according to federal Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair. That's more than ten times the average area typically burned by this time of year over the past decade. Blair said in a briefing on Friday morning that there were 214 fires burning across Canada out of which 93 are out of control. 29,000 people have been evacuated. Wildfires are common in Canada's western provinces, but this year the eastern province of Nova Scotia is reeling from its worst-ever wildfire season. The province on the Atlantic coast has had nearly 200 wildfires. These have burned more than 19,000 hectares and have displaced more than 25,000 people. For comparison, there were 152 wildfires that burned 3380 hectares in the year 2022. Evacuation in Quebec Stephane Lauzon, a member of Parliament from Quebec, told a news conference in Ottawa that as many as 10,000 residents, or one-third of the population of Sept Iles would be displaced. Steeve Beaupre, mayor of Sept Iles on St Lawrence River declared a local state of emergency. He announced a mandatory evacuation as wildfires nearby "advanced very quickly" overnight. In the morning, the residents were asked to vacate their homes by 4 pm local time (2100 GMT). Earlier, on Thursday, 500 residents from Chapais in the north of the province were evacuated. "The situation is quickly changing in Quebec," Lauzon said, adding that about 100 fires, "many more than yesterday," were burning in the province, including about 20 out of control. Wildfires started after major flareups in the west of the country in May, mainly in the Prairies provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Also Read | Canada: Massive wildfires continue to displace thousands In the past week, firefighting shifted to Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast. (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 wildfires: 'This is a scary time,' says PM Justin Trudeau

Wildfires and a record-breaking heat wave punished eastern Canada on Thursday (June 1). The wildfires are ravaging the Atlantic coast and also other parts of the country. The situation is being described by many as 'unprecedented'. On Thursday, more than 210 fires were burning across the country, 82 of them out of control.&nbsp;

More than 2.7 million hectares of land across the country has been scorched. According to the officials, this is more than last three decades' average.

"These conditions this early in the season are unprecedented and of course they are deeply concerning," Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair told a news conference in Ottawa.

The month of May saw some major fires. These were notably in Alberta and Saskatchewan. However, in the last week, firefighting shifted to Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast. Wildfires here are usually relatively rare.

"It's a simple fact that Canada's experiencing the impacts of climate change, including more frequent and more extreme wildfires," Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson said, projecting the amount of forest burned by wildfires to double by 2050.

On Thursday, 16 fires were burning in Nova Scotia. The flames had destroyed 200 homes. About 20,000 residents have been displaced.

"The numbers are really breath-taking," said Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston. "Our province is experiencing tremendous trauma."

The Coast Guard and water bombers from neighbouring provinces have been helping out, additional kits have been shipped in from Ontario, and firefighters from the US and South Africa are en route.

"We are far from being out of the woods. We are still dealing with a very dangerous and volatile situation," local natural resources official David Steeves said.

<h2>Halifax threatened</h2>

Northwest suburbs of Nova Scotia's main city Halifax are threatened by a large fire that forced evacuation of more than 16,000 people. It is reportedly under control.

But another fire near Lake Barrington poses a challenge for fire crews after burning more than 20,000 hectares. It is the largest fire ever recorded in the province.

Earlier this week, more than 2,000 residents who were in the path of that fast-moving blaze were forced to flee at very short notice.

<h2>Soaring temperatures</h2>

Major Canadian cities like Montreal, Toronto, even capital Ottawa saw record-breaking temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius.

Line Blette, a construction worker in downtown Montreal, drenched herself with water to cool down, telling AFP: "It's the only way we can work."

Passerby Nora Amar, 33, sporting a white hat to protect her from the sun, said the city needs more trees to provide shade as the weather undergoes "a drastic change."

(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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Wildfires and a record-breaking heat wave punished eastern Canada on Thursday (June 1). The wildfires are ravaging the Atlantic coast and also other parts of the country.

Wildfires and a record-breaking heat wave punished eastern Canada on Thursday (June 1). The wildfires are ravaging the Atlantic coast and also other parts of the country. The situation is being described by many as 'unprecedented'. On Thursday, more than 210 fires were burning across the country, 82 of them out of control. More than 2.7 million hectares of land across the country has been scorched. According to the officials, this is more than last three decades' average. "These conditions this early in the season are unprecedented and of course they are deeply concerning," Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair told a news conference in Ottawa. The month of May saw some major fires. These were notably in Alberta and Saskatchewan. However, in the last week, firefighting shifted to Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast. Wildfires here are usually relatively rare. "It's a simple fact that Canada's experiencing the impacts of climate change, including more frequent and more extreme wildfires," Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson said, projecting the amount of forest burned by wildfires to double by 2050. On Thursday, 16 fires were burning in Nova Scotia. The flames had destroyed 200 homes. About 20,000 residents have been displaced. "The numbers are really breath-taking," said Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston. "Our province is experiencing tremendous trauma." The Coast Guard and water bombers from neighbouring provinces have been helping out, additional kits have been shipped in from Ontario, and firefighters from the US and South Africa are en route. "We are far from being out of the woods. We are still dealing with a very dangerous and volatile situation," local natural resources official David Steeves said. Halifax threatened Northwest suburbs of Nova Scotia's main city Halifax are threatened by a large fire that forced evacuation of more than 16,000 people. It is reportedly under control. But another fire near Lake Barrington poses a challenge for fire crews after burning more than 20,000 hectares. It is the largest fire ever recorded in the province. Earlier this week, more than 2,000 residents who were in the path of that fast-moving blaze were forced to flee at very short notice. Soaring temperatures Major Canadian cities like Montreal, Toronto, even capital Ottawa saw record-breaking temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius. Line Blette, a construction worker in downtown Montreal, drenched herself with water to cool down, telling AFP: "It's the only way we can work." Passerby Nora Amar, 33, sporting a white hat to protect her from the sun, said the city needs more trees to provide shade as the weather undergoes "a drastic change." (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: Massive wildfires continue to displace thousands

Meta's latest tests on its social media platforms Facebook and Instagram will limit some users and publishers from viewing or sharing some news content in Canada. While the specific timeline for the supposed testing has not been shared, Meta Platforms Inc. said that the testing period will run several weeks.

The minor percentage of Canadian users enrolled in testing will be notified if they attempt to share news content.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-meta-threaten-to-withdraw-news-access-if-online-news-act-becomes-law-588871">Google, Meta threaten to withdraw news access if Online News Act becomes law</a>

It must be noted that the supposed disruption in sharing the news content would only occur for the Canadians enrolled for the testing.

<h2>Canada's Online News Act</h2>

The test comes in response to Canada's proposed "Online News Act" which would force platforms like Meta and Google parent Alphabet Inc. to negotiate commercial deals and pay Canadian news publishers for their content.

Meta had, in March, warned it would end the availability of news content for Canadians on its platforms if the proposed bill was passed in its current form.

Also watch |&nbsp;WION Business News | Meta preparing large-scale layoffs: Reports

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-business-news-meta-preparing-large-scale-layoffs-reports-531772/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Canadian Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, who introduced the bill last year, called the tests "unacceptable".

"When a big tech company... tells us, 'If you don't do this or that, then I’m pulling the plug' – that’s a threat. I’ve never done anything because I was afraid of a threat," Rodriguez was quoted as saying by&nbsp;Reuters.

Earlier, Google had rolled out similar tests earlier this year blocking news content for some Canadian users as a test run for a potential response to the online news bill.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Meta's latest tests on its social media platforms Facebook and Instagram will limit some users and publishers from viewing or sharing some news content in Canada.

Meta's latest tests on its social media platforms Facebook and Instagram will limit some users and publishers from viewing or sharing some news content in Canada. While the specific timeline for the supposed testing has not been shared, Meta Platforms Inc. said that the testing period will run several weeks. The minor percentage of Canadian users enrolled in testing will be notified if they attempt to share news content. Also read | Google, Meta threaten to withdraw news access if Online News Act becomes law It must be noted that the supposed disruption in sharing the news content would only occur for the Canadians enrolled for the testing. Canada's Online News Act The test comes in response to Canada's proposed "Online News Act" which would force platforms like Meta and Google parent Alphabet Inc. to negotiate commercial deals and pay Canadian news publishers for their content. Meta had, in March, warned it would end the availability of news content for Canadians on its platforms if the proposed bill was passed in its current form. Also watch | WION Business News | Meta preparing large-scale layoffs: Reports × Canadian Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, who introduced the bill last year, called the tests "unacceptable". "When a big tech company... tells us, 'If you don't do this or that, then I’m pulling the plug' – that’s a threat. I’ve never done anything because I was afraid of a threat," Rodriguez was quoted as saying by Reuters. Earlier, Google had rolled out similar tests earlier this year blocking news content for some Canadian users as a test run for a potential response to the online news bill. 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: Meta to withdraw news access on Facebook, Instagram for some users. Here's why

Canada’s former Conservative Party leader Erin O’Toole has accused China of targeting him with misinformation and voter suppression campaigns during the 2021 election.

Former conservative leader Erin O'Toole accuses China of rigging Canadian elections

Canada has come out with a regulation that would soon require health warnings to be printed on individual cigarettes, making it the first country to implement such kind of initiative as it aims to reduce tobacco usage to less than 5 per cent by 2035.

“Tobacco smoke harms children,” “Cigarettes cause leukaemia,” “Poison in every puff,”— such kind of health warnings would soon be seen printed on every cigarette&nbsp;sold in Canada.

“The new Tobacco Products Appearance, Packaging and Labelling Regulations will be part of the Government of Canada’s continued efforts to help adults who smoke to quit, to protect youth and non-tobacco users from nicotine addiction, and to further reduce the appeal of tobacco,” Canadian health officials said in a news release on Wednesday.

These labels would be printed on the tipping paper, which is the outermost paper of the filter section, of individual cigarettes, little cigars, tubes, along with other tobacco products. The warnings would be written in English and French.

<h2>Initiative can deter smoking</h2>

The officials believe that such an initiative would virtually make it impossible for smokers to avoid health warnings.

The new rules would take effect on August 1, but the official said that it would be carried out in phases.

Retailers who sell tobacco product packages will have to feature the new warnings by the end of April 2024; king-size cigarettes will first feature the individual warnings by the end of July 2024; followed by regular-sized cigarettes and other products by the end of April 2025, the&nbsp;news release said.

<h2>A welcome move</h2>

The move was welcomed by health activities, including the Canadian Cancer Society, Canadian Lung Association and Heart &amp; Stroke Foundation were among the organisations that welcomed the news.

“It’s going to mean that there’s a warning with every cigarette, every puff, it’s going to be there during every smoke break,” Rob Cunningham, senior policy analyst with the Canadian Cancer Society, told CTV News Channel.

In an open letter on Monday, the three national health organisations had called on Canada's premiers to push for initiatives to reduce smoking during settlement negotiations with major tobacco companies.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Canada has come out with a regulation that would soon require health warnings to be printed on individual cigarettes, making it the first country to implement such kind of initiative as it aims to reduce tobacco usage to less than 5 per cent by 2035.

Canada has come out with a regulation that would soon require health warnings to be printed on individual cigarettes, making it the first country to implement such kind of initiative as it aims to reduce tobacco usage to less than 5 per cent by 2035. “Tobacco smoke harms children,” “Cigarettes cause leukaemia,” “Poison in every puff,”— such kind of health warnings would soon be seen printed on every cigarette sold in Canada. “The new Tobacco Products Appearance, Packaging and Labelling Regulations will be part of the Government of Canada’s continued efforts to help adults who smoke to quit, to protect youth and non-tobacco users from nicotine addiction, and to further reduce the appeal of tobacco,” Canadian health officials said in a news release on Wednesday. These labels would be printed on the tipping paper, which is the outermost paper of the filter section, of individual cigarettes, little cigars, tubes, along with other tobacco products. The warnings would be written in English and French. Initiative can deter smoking The officials believe that such an initiative would virtually make it impossible for smokers to avoid health warnings. The new rules would take effect on August 1, but the official said that it would be carried out in phases. Retailers who sell tobacco product packages will have to feature the new warnings by the end of April 2024; king-size cigarettes will first feature the individual warnings by the end of July 2024; followed by regular-sized cigarettes and other products by the end of April 2025, the news release said. A welcome move The move was welcomed by health activities, including the Canadian Cancer Society, Canadian Lung Association and Heart & Stroke Foundation were among the organisations that welcomed the news. “It’s going to mean that there’s a warning with every cigarette, every puff, it’s going to be there during every smoke break,” Rob Cunningham, senior policy analyst with the Canadian Cancer Society, told CTV News Channel. In an open letter on Monday, the three national health organisations had called on Canada's premiers to push for initiatives to reduce smoking during settlement negotiations with major tobacco companies. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Canada becomes first country to put health warnings on individual cigarettes

Did China manipulate the Canadian Elections? Former Conservative Leader Erin O'Toole claims that Canada's Intel agents have told him that Beijing tried to suppress his votes. Mohammed Saleh brings you a report.

Gravitas: 'China suppressed votes', Former Conservative leader's big charge

Another wildfire in Canada forces residents to evacuate the city

Canada’s former Conservative Party leader Erin O’Toole, on Tuesday (May 30) claimed that he was a target of China’s misinformation and voter suppression campaign aimed at discrediting him during the election in 2021, citing the intelligence by the country’s spy agency. This comes a day after Hong Kong-born Canadian lawmaker, Jenny Kwan, said she was also targeted&nbsp;by Beijing for her human rights activism.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Canada moved to expel Toronto-based Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei after an intelligence report accused him of trying to target a Canadian lawmaker over his support for the Uyghur Muslim minority in China.&nbsp;

<h2>What did the former opposition leader claim?</h2>

The claim follows a briefing by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), on Friday. O’Toole, a current Member of Parliament (MP), had lost the 2021 election to incumbent Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.&nbsp;

The Canadian MP said that the spy agency had confirmed his suspicions that he and his parliamentary caucus members were the “target of a Chinese orchestrated campaign of disinformation and voter suppression in the run-up to and during the 2021 general election.”

He added, “Each of these threats was intended to discredit me, promote false narratives about my policies, and severely obstruct my work as a member of Parliament and as leader of the official opposition.”&nbsp;

Kwan, who is a New Democrat MP, said that the CSIS also informed her that she was part of Beijing’s foreign interference campaign and “would continue to be a target.” However, the Canadian lawmaker said that she would “not be intimidated” or “silenced in any way.”&nbsp;

She also claimed that it was her activism related to human rights in Hong Kong that pushed China to impose&nbsp;its National Security Law in the city, as well as her support for China’s Uyghur Muslim minority community that made her a target.

“Whoever is trying to put pressure on me in whatever way they are trying to do it, they will not succeed,” said Kwan.

O’Toole believes&nbsp;it was his criticism of human rights abuses in China as well as discouraging the use of Huawei technology in Canada’s 5G network which prompted Beijing to retaliate.&nbsp;

<h2>Trudeau&nbsp;government under pressure</h2>

There has been mounting pressure on the Canadian government which has also faced criticism for not passing the intelligence about Chinese meddling to the parliament and its members&nbsp;earlier.&nbsp;The government and its senior advisers are “being willfully blind to attacks on our parliamentary democracy,” said Canadian MP&nbsp;O’Toole.&nbsp;

The government faced similar criticism from Conservative MP Michael Chong, who&nbsp;as per a media&nbsp;report was&nbsp;targeted by China for his staunch support of Uyghur rights. As per the Canadian intelligence report from 2021 quoted by the country’s Globe and Mail newspaper, Beijing requested details about Chong and his family.&nbsp;

In a supposed intimidation effort to make “an example” and also to “deter others from taking an anti-PRC position,” the paper reported. Chong also criticised Trudeau’s government for inaction, while the Canadian PM said he too found out about the intelligence report from the newspaper and blamed the spy agency for not passing on the information to him on time.

However, the report did lead to the ouster of&nbsp;Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei who was&nbsp;accused of trying to target Chong.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Canada’s former Conservative Party leader Erin O’Toole, on Tuesday (May 30) claimed that he was a target of China’s misinformation and voter suppression campaign aimed at discrediting him during the election in 2021, citing the intelligence by the country’s spy agency.

Canada’s former Conservative Party leader Erin O’Toole, on Tuesday (May 30) claimed that he was a target of China’s misinformation and voter suppression campaign aimed at discrediting him during the election in 2021, citing the intelligence by the country’s spy agency. This comes a day after Hong Kong-born Canadian lawmaker, Jenny Kwan, said she was also targeted by Beijing for her human rights activism. Earlier this month, Canada moved to expel Toronto-based Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei after an intelligence report accused him of trying to target a Canadian lawmaker over his support for the Uyghur Muslim minority in China. What did the former opposition leader claim? The claim follows a briefing by the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), on Friday. O’Toole, a current Member of Parliament (MP), had lost the 2021 election to incumbent Liberal Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The Canadian MP said that the spy agency had confirmed his suspicions that he and his parliamentary caucus members were the “target of a Chinese orchestrated campaign of disinformation and voter suppression in the run-up to and during the 2021 general election.” He added, “Each of these threats was intended to discredit me, promote false narratives about my policies, and severely obstruct my work as a member of Parliament and as leader of the official opposition.” Kwan, who is a New Democrat MP, said that the CSIS also informed her that she was part of Beijing’s foreign interference campaign and “would continue to be a target.” However, the Canadian lawmaker said that she would “not be intimidated” or “silenced in any way.” She also claimed that it was her activism related to human rights in Hong Kong that pushed China to impose its National Security Law in the city, as well as her support for China’s Uyghur Muslim minority community that made her a target. “Whoever is trying to put pressure on me in whatever way they are trying to do it, they will not succeed,” said Kwan. O’Toole believes it was his criticism of human rights abuses in China as well as discouraging the use of Huawei technology in Canada’s 5G network which prompted Beijing to retaliate. Trudeau government under pressure There has been mounting pressure on the Canadian government which has also faced criticism for not passing the intelligence about Chinese meddling to the parliament and its members earlier. The government and its senior advisers are “being willfully blind to attacks on our parliamentary democracy,” said Canadian MP O’Toole. The government faced similar criticism from Conservative MP Michael Chong, who as per a media report was targeted by China for his staunch support of Uyghur rights. As per the Canadian intelligence report from 2021 quoted by the country’s Globe and Mail newspaper, Beijing requested details about Chong and his family. In a supposed intimidation effort to make “an example” and also to “deter others from taking an anti-PRC position,” the paper reported. Chong also criticised Trudeau’s government for inaction, while the Canadian PM said he too found out about the intelligence report from the newspaper and blamed the spy agency for not passing on the information to him on time. However, the report did lead to the ouster of Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei who was accused of trying to target Chong. (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.

Ex-Canadian Conservative party chief claims China launched campaign to ‘discredit’ him in 2021 elections

Canadian national&nbsp;Matthew&nbsp;Dupre&nbsp;has been successfully extradited to Thailand in connection with the killing last year of a criminal gang member, Thai authorities said on Monday, after the former soldier arrived in Bangkok on a special air force flight.

Dupre, 38, is wanted for the alleged murder of suspected criminal Jimi Sandhu, who was shot dead in Phuket in February 2022, central investigation bureau commissioner Jirabhop Bhuridej told a news conference.

"The deceased is connected with the United Nation Gang and was linked to the murder of one of&nbsp;the leaders of another gang, called the Red Scorpion, in Canada," Jirabhop said.

Police footage showed&nbsp;Dupre&nbsp;in handcuffs and surrounded by police on an airplane. The extradition involved a Thai air force flight after commercial airlines declined requests for transport over safety concerns, Thai police said.

"We have to get hold of the suspect so that he be prosecuted under the Thai judicial system," state prosecutor Intranee Sumawong said, adding that&nbsp;Dupre&nbsp;would not face the death penalty under the extradition bill.

"We have to ensure that there is security in Thailand and uphold our reputation that this country is safe to live in," she said.

An Alberta court approved the extradition of&nbsp;Dupre&nbsp;last December.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Canadian national Matthew Dupre has been successfully extradited to Thailand in connection with the killing last year of a criminal gang member, Thai authorities said on Monday, after the former soldier arrived in Bangkok on a special air force flight.

Canadian national Matthew Dupre has been successfully extradited to Thailand in connection with the killing last year of a criminal gang member, Thai authorities said on Monday, after the former soldier arrived in Bangkok on a special air force flight. Dupre, 38, is wanted for the alleged murder of suspected criminal Jimi Sandhu, who was shot dead in Phuket in February 2022, central investigation bureau commissioner Jirabhop Bhuridej told a news conference. "The deceased is connected with the United Nation Gang and was linked to the murder of one of the leaders of another gang, called the Red Scorpion, in Canada," Jirabhop said. Police footage showed Dupre in handcuffs and surrounded by police on an airplane. The extradition involved a Thai air force flight after commercial airlines declined requests for transport over safety concerns, Thai police said. "We have to get hold of the suspect so that he be prosecuted under the Thai judicial system," state prosecutor Intranee Sumawong said, adding that Dupre would not face the death penalty under the extradition bill. "We have to ensure that there is security in Thailand and uphold our reputation that this country is safe to live in," she said. An Alberta court approved the extradition of Dupre last December. 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.

Former Canadian soldier extradited to Thailand over Indian-origin gangster's killing

Over 16,000 people in Canada's eastern province of Nova Scotia were forced to evacuate their homes on Monday (May 29) as one of hundreds of wildfires raging across the country threatened the city of Halifax.

Over 16,000 people in Canada's eastern province of Nova Scotia were forced to evacuate their homes on Monday (May 29) as one of hundreds of wildfires raging across the country threatened the city of Halifax. A dashcam video showed a family in Nova Scotia escaping the wildfire with flames and smoke on either side of the highway. The video, which was tweeted by the news agency Reuters early Monday, showed embers and red smoke filling the air. Due to low visibility, the car was about to collide with the vehicle in front. The driver applied brakes immediately when the rear headlights of the car were visible. Halifax declares state of emergency Halifax declared a state of emergency late Sunday with the municipality saying it would be effective for seven days unless lifted or extended. The Nova Scotia Power had temporarily disconnected power in affected areas. The Canadian city of Halifax in Nova Scotia declared a state of local emergency after a wildfire caused evacuations and power outages, with authorities shutting several schools in the affected areas https://t.co/X5O5YpgvES pic.twitter.com/Ko8xC3tCJi — Reuters (@Reuters) May 29, 2023 × And telecommunication firms Rogers and Bell Canada's Bell Aliant tweeted that some customers in communities evacuated due to wildfires may experience services disruptions. Halifax facing 'unprecedented' fire situation: Mayor Halifax Mayor Mike Savage said on Sunday that the city of 430,000 was facing an unprecedented fire situation. Addressing a press conference, Mayor Savage said, "We have not expanded the (evacuation zone) perimeter since yesterday, which is some hope that perhaps this situation has stabilized. But it is a dangerous situation." Winds which fanned the flames changed directions on Monday, pushing the Halifax wildfire back in the direction it had come from. Citing officials, AFP reported that significant rain was needed to bring the wildfire in Nova Scotia province under control, and there was no forecast of rain this week. On Monday, wildfires were burning in eight out of 13 Canadian provinces and territories. A few days back, the Canadian government called for international help to combat the wildfires. On May 17, Public Safety Minister Bill Blair said the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Center was reaching out to the United States, Mexico, Australia and New Zealand. "We are asking them to come and help us." (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.

Watch: Dashcam video shows wildfire burning out of control in Canada

Wildfire raged through Canada on Sunday as the cities of Halifax and Nova Scotia declared a state of local emergency after wildfires forced evacuation in the areas. Authorities have said the emergency would be in effect for up to seven days unless extended as per the report several schools have also been shut in the affected areas.

Wildfires engulf Canadian cities, local authorities declare an emergency and shut schools

Canada and Saudi Arabia have agreed to restore full diplomatic ties and appoint new ambassadors, both countries said on Wednesday, bringing to a close a 2018 dispute that damaged relations and trade.

The decision follows discussions held between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum in Bangkok in November last year, according to statements from Canada and Saudi Arabia.

The decision stems from "the desire for both sides to restore diplomatic relations between the two countries on the basis of mutual respect and common interests," the statements said.

<h2>What was the 2018 row?</h2>

The 2018 row pre-dated the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi later that year, which Canada and all Western countries condemned. It started when Canada's embassy in Riyadh published a tweet in Arabic urging the immediate release of women's rights activists held by Saudi Arabia.

That prompted Riyadh to recall its ambassador and bar the envoy from returning, and to institute a ban on new trade.

"Punitive trade measures will be lifted," said a Canadian government source familiar with the agreement who was not authorized to speak on the record. It is unclear what effect the dispute had on trade.&nbsp;

Saudi Arabia was the biggest export market for Canada in the region in 2021, according to official data, when they totaled C$2.2 billion ($1.65 billion). Imports were $2.4 billion. Almost all Canada's imports were oil and petrochemicals. More than 80% of exports to Saudi Arabia were transportation equipment.

"Empty chairs at the end of the day don't push our interests forward, and they don't push things like human rights forward," the source added.&nbsp;

The normalization comes as the Saudi prince, known as MbS, seeks to reassert Saudi Arabia as a regional power by using his place atop an energy giant in an oil-dependent world consumed by the war in Ukraine.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Canada, Saudi Arabia to restore full diplomatic ties 5 years after spat

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/canada-saudi-arabia-to-restore-full-diplomatic-ties-5-years-after-spat-596191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Saudi Arabia is pivotal within its region. It's an important player," said Roland Paris, Trudeau's former foreign policy adviser and professor of international affairs at University of Ottawa. "It only makes sense to have ambassadors back in place in order to keep channels of communication open."

Canada will appoint Jean-Philippe Linteau as its new ambassador in Riyadh.

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has said "we need to have conversations with people we don't always agree with on everything in order to find global solutions to global problems," the source added.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Canada and Saudi Arabia have agreed to restore full diplomatic ties and appoint new ambassadors, both countries said on Wednesday, bringing to a close a 2018 dispute that damaged relations and trade.

Canada and Saudi Arabia have agreed to restore full diplomatic ties and appoint new ambassadors, both countries said on Wednesday, bringing to a close a 2018 dispute that damaged relations and trade. The decision follows discussions held between Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the sidelines of the summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum in Bangkok in November last year, according to statements from Canada and Saudi Arabia. The decision stems from "the desire for both sides to restore diplomatic relations between the two countries on the basis of mutual respect and common interests," the statements said. What was the 2018 row? The 2018 row pre-dated the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi later that year, which Canada and all Western countries condemned. It started when Canada's embassy in Riyadh published a tweet in Arabic urging the immediate release of women's rights activists held by Saudi Arabia. That prompted Riyadh to recall its ambassador and bar the envoy from returning, and to institute a ban on new trade. "Punitive trade measures will be lifted," said a Canadian government source familiar with the agreement who was not authorized to speak on the record. It is unclear what effect the dispute had on trade. Saudi Arabia was the biggest export market for Canada in the region in 2021, according to official data, when they totaled C$2.2 billion ($1.65 billion). Imports were $2.4 billion. Almost all Canada's imports were oil and petrochemicals. More than 80% of exports to Saudi Arabia were transportation equipment. "Empty chairs at the end of the day don't push our interests forward, and they don't push things like human rights forward," the source added. The normalization comes as the Saudi prince, known as MbS, seeks to reassert Saudi Arabia as a regional power by using his place atop an energy giant in an oil-dependent world consumed by the war in Ukraine. ALSO WATCH | Canada, Saudi Arabia to restore full diplomatic ties 5 years after spat "Saudi Arabia is pivotal within its region. It's an important player," said Roland Paris, Trudeau's former foreign policy adviser and professor of international affairs at University of Ottawa. "It only makes sense to have ambassadors back in place in order to keep channels of communication open." Canada will appoint Jean-Philippe Linteau as its new ambassador in Riyadh. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly has said "we need to have conversations with people we don't always agree with on everything in order to find global solutions to global problems," the source added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Canada, Saudi Arabia restore diplomatic ties after 2018 fallout

Canada and Saudi Arabia have agreed to restore full diplomatic ties and appoint new ambassadors, both countries said on Wednesday (local time), bringing to a close a 2018 dispute that damaged relations and trade.

Canada, Saudi Arabia to restore full diplomatic ties 5 years after spat

Canada has cleared the air on Beijing's role in meddling with its domestic elections. Canada's top official handling the investigation said, China sought to interfere in Canada's last two elections but clearly failed to sway the outcome. Authorities have also ruled out a public inquiry into the matter which the opposition has been demanding Beijing on the other hand has repeatedly denied the accusations these allegations are based on leaked intelligence documents and unnamed sources, which include secret campaign donations and some Chinese operatives working for Canadian candidates or lawmakers

Canada elections: Justin Trudeau faces heat over Chinese meddling

The Canadian police said on Tuesday (May 23) that they have solved a 48-year-old high-profile case in Quebec. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the rape and murder of&nbsp;16-year-old Sharron Prior in 1975 have been linked to a&nbsp;West Virginia man&nbsp;Franklin Maywood Romine who died more than 40 years ago. Police in&nbsp;Longueuil, Quebec said that DNA evidence allowed them to be fully certain that&nbsp;Romine murdered Prior in the&nbsp;Montreal suburb.

Romine was exhumed&nbsp;from a West Virginia cemetery in early May for DNA testing. Longueuil police say the DNA of Romine — who had a long criminal history — matches a sample found at the murder scene. He also matched a witness’ physical description of the suspect. His name did not come up in the investigation until last year.

<h2>What happened to&nbsp;Sharron Prior?</h2>

Sharon Prior disappeared on March 29, 1975, while on her way to meet friends at a pizza parlour near her home in Montreal's&nbsp;Pointe-St-Charles neighbourhood.&nbsp;Her body was found three days later in a wooded area in Longueuil.&nbsp;

Over the years, law enforcement agencies investigated over 100 suspects but no arrests were made.&nbsp;Prior's mother&nbsp;Yvonne, who is now in her 80s, has spent her life looking for her daughter's killer.&nbsp;

<h2>Franklin Maywood Romine's criminal past</h2>

Franklin Maywood Romine ran into&nbsp;trouble with the law many times. When the Longueuil police started looking through criminal records, they found an extensive history of violence and attempts by Romine to evade law enforcement by moving between West Virginia and Canada.

As per records obtained by&nbsp;WCHS-TV, Romine first attempted to escape&nbsp;from the West Virginia Penitentiary in 1964 and later escaped in 1967. Two years later, he already had a Canadian rap sheet.&nbsp;

In 1974,&nbsp;Romine was arrested for breaking into a house and raping a woman in West Virginia's Parkersburg. But he was&nbsp;released on a $2,500 bond two months later and fled to Canada.&nbsp;

Months before&nbsp;Sharron Prior was raped and murdered in 1975,&nbsp;Romine was captured by Canadian border officials and extradited to West Virginia, where he was sentenced to five to 10 years in prison for sexual assault in the Parkersburg case.

Romine died in 1982 at the age of 36, shortly after he was released. However, officials said that they were not able to find a death certificate detailing the circumstances which caused his death. His body was returned to his mother in West Virginia. He was buried in the&nbsp;Putnam County, West Virginia Pine Grove Cemetery.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

The Canadian police said on Tuesday (May 23) that they have solved a 48-year-old high-profile case in Quebec. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the rape and murder of 16-year-old Sharron Prior in 1975 have been linked to a West Virginia man Franklin Maywood Romine who died more than 40 years ago.

The Canadian police said on Tuesday (May 23) that they have solved a 48-year-old high-profile case in Quebec. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the rape and murder of 16-year-old Sharron Prior in 1975 have been linked to a West Virginia man Franklin Maywood Romine who died more than 40 years ago. Police in Longueuil, Quebec said that DNA evidence allowed them to be fully certain that Romine murdered Prior in the Montreal suburb. Romine was exhumed from a West Virginia cemetery in early May for DNA testing. Longueuil police say the DNA of Romine — who had a long criminal history — matches a sample found at the murder scene. He also matched a witness’ physical description of the suspect. His name did not come up in the investigation until last year. What happened to Sharron Prior? Sharon Prior disappeared on March 29, 1975, while on her way to meet friends at a pizza parlour near her home in Montreal's Pointe-St-Charles neighbourhood. Her body was found three days later in a wooded area in Longueuil. Over the years, law enforcement agencies investigated over 100 suspects but no arrests were made. Prior's mother Yvonne, who is now in her 80s, has spent her life looking for her daughter's killer. Franklin Maywood Romine's criminal past Franklin Maywood Romine ran into trouble with the law many times. When the Longueuil police started looking through criminal records, they found an extensive history of violence and attempts by Romine to evade law enforcement by moving between West Virginia and Canada. As per records obtained by WCHS-TV, Romine first attempted to escape from the West Virginia Penitentiary in 1964 and later escaped in 1967. Two years later, he already had a Canadian rap sheet. In 1974, Romine was arrested for breaking into a house and raping a woman in West Virginia's Parkersburg. But he was released on a $2,500 bond two months later and fled to Canada. Months before Sharron Prior was raped and murdered in 1975, Romine was captured by Canadian border officials and extradited to West Virginia, where he was sentenced to five to 10 years in prison for sexual assault in the Parkersburg case. Romine died in 1982 at the age of 36, shortly after he was released. However, officials said that they were not able to find a death certificate detailing the circumstances which caused his death. His body was returned to his mother in West Virginia. He was buried in the Putnam County, West Virginia Pine Grove Cemetery. (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.

48-yr-old case solved: Canadian police identify killer in murder of teen using DNA

The wildfire smoke blanketing the western region of Canada triggered health warnings for people but was also helping to cool blazes by blocking out a hot sun across hard-hit portions of the country on Sunday (May 21).

The wildfire smoke blanketing the western region of Canada triggered health warnings for people but was also helping to cool blazes by blocking out a hot sun across hard-hit portions of the country on Sunday (May 21). Speaking to reporters, Christie Tucker of the Alberta Wildfire said, "Many Albertans obviously can't get away from the smoke this weekend. It is thick in many parts of the province." "But they would also have noticed that temperatures are cooler than they would have been if there was no smoke covering the sun," Tucker said and explained that less heat meant there was less growth of fires. "While we're optimistic that the forecast rain will be enough to make a difference to some wildfires in the province, we are not out of the woods yet," the official added. Tens of thousands of people displaced The wildfire in Alberta has displaced tens of thousands of people and scorched more than 941,000 hectares over several weeks. The province is enduring energy production cuts, home evacuations, and poor air quality after an intense start to the wildfire season. According to a report by the news agency Reuters early Monday, Alberta Wildfire responded to 496 wildfires burning more than 842,000 hectares, compared with just 459 hectares last year. During the Victoria Day weekend, authorities in Alberta closed some parks and campgrounds, and residents were urged to limit outdoor activities. Wildfire smoke enters several US states The wildfire in Canada has sent smoke to many American states, including Nebraska, Illinois, Wisconsin, Wyoming, Utah, and Washington, impacting the air quality in some areas, with authorities issuing air quality alerts. On Sunday, more than 2,800 firefighters from Canada and the US were battling about 91 active wildfires. Several oil and gas companies had to sporadically stop or restart production in Alberta because of the fluctuating fire-related risks. Data firm Refinitiv said that in the past couple of weeks, gas flowing from Canada to the US has averaged just 7.1 billion cubic feet per day (bcfd), well below the 8.4-bcfd average exported since the start of 2023 and 9.0-bcfd last year. 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: Wildfire smoke choking citizens but proving helpful to cool blazes

In pics | Canada continues to battle wildfires

The South Korean President and Canadian Prime Minister agreed to step up cooperation on critical minerals and other economic security issues. Hem Kaur Saroya brings you the report.

Ottawa, Seoul focus on critical minerals | WION Climate Tracker

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - US returns pre-Hispanic and colonial art to Peru, US dept charges Apple's ex employee with attempting to steal technology, Google to delete inactive accounts, Canada wildfire scorches 95,000 hectares of land in just two days.

US dept charges Apple's ex employee with attempting to steal technology | WION Speed News

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to arrive in South Korea on Tuesday for a meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss security and vital minerals used in batteries.

Yoon and Trudeau will meet and have a joint press conference on Wednesday, followed by a formal dinner, according to Yoon's deputy national security advisor, Kim Tae-hyo.

Trudeau's visit, the first by a Canadian leader in nine years, commemorates the 60th anniversary of bilateral ties, and both sides will publish a joint statement outlining their cooperation for the next 60 years, Kim added.

The two nations have been discussing ways to expand cooperation on crucial minerals used in EV batteries and increase intelligence sharing.

"The two leaders will discuss intensively on ways to build a norms-based global order including on North Korea's human rights issues, launching a high-level economic and security dialogue, strengthening cooperation on key minerals," Kim told reporters.

Yoon and Trudeau will sign an agreement on major mineral supply chains, renewable energy conversion, and energy security cooperation, a South Korean government official told Reuters, demanding anonymity because the accord was not finished.

<h2>Canada to increase EV manufacturing</h2>

Canada has been attempting to increase EV manufacturing due to abundant mineral deposits, including lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are needed to produce batteries for such cars.

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;US gun violence: 18-year-old gunman kills three, injures two in New Mexico

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-gun-violence-18-year-old-gunman-kills-three-injures-two-in-new-mexico-592772/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

When the two presidents met in September, they pledged to expand cooperation on mineral supply chains as part of efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change.

While navigating a rising rivalry between the US and China, the two nations have also worked to increase security cooperation, including intelligence sharing.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/mortgage-mayhem-recoveries-canadas-housing-market-defies-the-odds-592568">Mortgage mayhem &amp; recoveries: Canada's housing market defies the odds</a>

Since the imprisonment of Huawei Technologies executive Meng Wanzhou in 2018 and Beijing's subsequent arrest of two Canadians on spying charges, diplomatic relations between Canada and China have been high.&nbsp;

China expelled a Canadian diplomat in Shanghai last week in retaliation for Ottawa's expulsion of a Chinese ambassador in Toronto.

Yoon has treaded carefully with China, South Korea's major trading partner, but he has been more vocal about Taiwan Strait tensions. Last month, Seoul and Beijing traded barbs over Yoon's remarks in an interview with Reuters. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to arrive in South Korea on Tuesday for a meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss security and vital minerals used in batteries.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is scheduled to arrive in South Korea on Tuesday for a meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss security and vital minerals used in batteries. Yoon and Trudeau will meet and have a joint press conference on Wednesday, followed by a formal dinner, according to Yoon's deputy national security advisor, Kim Tae-hyo. Trudeau's visit, the first by a Canadian leader in nine years, commemorates the 60th anniversary of bilateral ties, and both sides will publish a joint statement outlining their cooperation for the next 60 years, Kim added. The two nations have been discussing ways to expand cooperation on crucial minerals used in EV batteries and increase intelligence sharing. "The two leaders will discuss intensively on ways to build a norms-based global order including on North Korea's human rights issues, launching a high-level economic and security dialogue, strengthening cooperation on key minerals," Kim told reporters. Yoon and Trudeau will sign an agreement on major mineral supply chains, renewable energy conversion, and energy security cooperation, a South Korean government official told Reuters, demanding anonymity because the accord was not finished. Canada to increase EV manufacturing Canada has been attempting to increase EV manufacturing due to abundant mineral deposits, including lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are needed to produce batteries for such cars. ALSO WATCH | US gun violence: 18-year-old gunman kills three, injures two in New Mexico When the two presidents met in September, they pledged to expand cooperation on mineral supply chains as part of efforts to reduce emissions and combat climate change. While navigating a rising rivalry between the US and China, the two nations have also worked to increase security cooperation, including intelligence sharing. ALSO READ | Mortgage mayhem & recoveries: Canada's housing market defies the odds Since the imprisonment of Huawei Technologies executive Meng Wanzhou in 2018 and Beijing's subsequent arrest of two Canadians on spying charges, diplomatic relations between Canada and China have been high. China expelled a Canadian diplomat in Shanghai last week in retaliation for Ottawa's expulsion of a Chinese ambassador in Toronto. Yoon has treaded carefully with China, South Korea's major trading partner, but he has been more vocal about Taiwan Strait tensions. Last month, Seoul and Beijing traded barbs over Yoon's remarks in an interview with Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Canada's Trudeau to make first official visit to S Korea; minerals, security on the agenda

Canada's housing market is breaking all the rules, defying expectations, and staging a remarkable comeback after a year-long slump. But here's the twist: Just as the housing market is bouncing back, higher borrowing costs are expected to throw a wrench in the rest of the economy.

Canada's housing sector defies the odds | World Business Watch

A Canadian minister has flagged there could be a presence of more 'Chinese outposts' in the country, as per Reuters.&nbsp;Months after the Canadian police said they were looking into whether two community centres in Montreal were being used to intimidate Canadians of Chinese origin, Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino told a Canadian TV station on Sunday that there may be more of these facilities operating in the country.

Chinese police outposts are often under the radar by the authorities in countries such as the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, or the US for allegedly instilling fear into Chinese citizens living overseas and stomping its control to throttle criticism of the ruling Communist Party.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pti-to-file-firs-against-rangers-nab-over-imrans-abduction-on-9-may-592450">PTI to file FIRs against Rangers, NAB over Imran’s ‘abduction’ on 9 May</a>

All of these countries have opened investigations into these allegations. Canada adds to the list with its apprehensions over the presence of these police outposts.&nbsp;

In an interview with CTV’s Question Period Marco Mendicino said,&nbsp;"I am confident that the [Royal Canadian Mounted Police] have taken concrete action to disrupt any foreign interference in relation to those so-called police stations, and that if new police stations are popping up and so on, that they will continue to take decisive action going forward."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-26-killed-in-tractor-trailer-van-crash-in-northern-mexico-592444">At least 26 killed as tractor trailer and van collide in northern Mexico</a>

These Chinese outpost facilities are allegedly run under the directions of China in locations outside its mainland territory.&nbsp;Though Chinese people running these establishments claim that these outposts are to cater to the issues faced by the Chinese community living in the country, it is still unclear as to what purposes these outposts really serve.&nbsp;

As per a few reports, these facilities are intimidating Chinese activists living abroad who speak out against the CCP led by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

It's important to note that the establishment of Chinese outposts is a complex geopolitical issue, often subject to territorial disputes, criticism, and concerns from other countries in the regions where they are located.

In Canada, the police in the month of March said they were investigating the centres&nbsp;in Montreal. This month, the Canadian press reported that these centres&nbsp;were operating normally. This is despite the fact that the statements by the minister that all of these 'secret' stations in Canada have been closed down. As far as China is concerned, the country has refuted all claims made in connection to these police outposts.&nbsp;

<h2>Showdown over diplomat&nbsp;expulsion &nbsp;</h2>

China expelled a Canadian diplomat on 9 May. This came after claims of Chinese diplomats targeting a Canadian MP for his anti-Beijing stances. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said earlier that she will consider expelling Chinese diplomats.

Watch | Turkey Election 2023: Preliminary numbers show President Erdogan in the lead

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/turkey-election-2023-preliminary-numbers-show-president-erdogan-in-the-lead-592427/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

A Canadian intelligence report had indicated that one of these Chinese diplomats tried to intimidate a Canadian lawmaker's relatives living in Hong Kong.&nbsp;As per reports, a Chinese diplomat is allegedly involved in targeting the Canadian lawmaker and his family for his anti-China stance. China criticised Canada for mulling over the options of expelling Chinese diplomats.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A Canadian minister has flagged there could be a presence of more 'Chinese outposts' in the country, as per Reuters. Months after the Canadian police said they were looking into whether two community centres in Montreal were being used to intimidate Canadians of Chinese origin, Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino told a Canadian TV station on Sunday that there may be more of these facilities operating in the country.

A Canadian minister has flagged there could be a presence of more 'Chinese outposts' in the country, as per Reuters. Months after the Canadian police said they were looking into whether two community centres in Montreal were being used to intimidate Canadians of Chinese origin, Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino told a Canadian TV station on Sunday that there may be more of these facilities operating in the country. Chinese police outposts are often under the radar by the authorities in countries such as the UK, the Netherlands, Germany, or the US for allegedly instilling fear into Chinese citizens living overseas and stomping its control to throttle criticism of the ruling Communist Party. Also Read | PTI to file FIRs against Rangers, NAB over Imran’s ‘abduction’ on 9 May All of these countries have opened investigations into these allegations. Canada adds to the list with its apprehensions over the presence of these police outposts. In an interview with CTV’s Question Period Marco Mendicino said, "I am confident that the [Royal Canadian Mounted Police] have taken concrete action to disrupt any foreign interference in relation to those so-called police stations, and that if new police stations are popping up and so on, that they will continue to take decisive action going forward." Also Read | At least 26 killed as tractor trailer and van collide in northern Mexico These Chinese outpost facilities are allegedly run under the directions of China in locations outside its mainland territory. Though Chinese people running these establishments claim that these outposts are to cater to the issues faced by the Chinese community living in the country, it is still unclear as to what purposes these outposts really serve. As per a few reports, these facilities are intimidating Chinese activists living abroad who speak out against the CCP led by Chinese President Xi Jinping. It's important to note that the establishment of Chinese outposts is a complex geopolitical issue, often subject to territorial disputes, criticism, and concerns from other countries in the regions where they are located. In Canada, the police in the month of March said they were investigating the centres in Montreal. This month, the Canadian press reported that these centres were operating normally. This is despite the fact that the statements by the minister that all of these 'secret' stations in Canada have been closed down. As far as China is concerned, the country has refuted all claims made in connection to these police outposts. Showdown over diplomat expulsion China expelled a Canadian diplomat on 9 May. This came after claims of Chinese diplomats targeting a Canadian MP for his anti-Beijing stances. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said earlier that she will consider expelling Chinese diplomats. Watch | Turkey Election 2023: Preliminary numbers show President Erdogan in the lead × A Canadian intelligence report had indicated that one of these Chinese diplomats tried to intimidate a Canadian lawmaker's relatives living in Hong Kong. As per reports, a Chinese diplomat is allegedly involved in targeting the Canadian lawmaker and his family for his anti-China stance. China criticised Canada for mulling over the options of expelling Chinese diplomats. 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 minister flags potential presence of more 'Chinese outposts' in country

The Canadian province of Alberta is dealing with at least 87 active wildfires. Of those at least 24 of them were considered "out of control." Rohit Wellington Rajan brings you the report.

Canada's Alberta faces more wildfires amid hot, dry weather | WION Climate Tracker

In a tale of revival amidst chaos, Canada's housing market has displayed encouraging signs of recovery following a prolonged slump.

After months of grappling with a struggling housing market, the Bank of Canada in April stopped its interest rate hikes, maintaining the benchmark rate at a 15-year high of 4.50 percent since January. This decision appears to have contributed to the recent housing market revival.

Interestingly, higher borrowing costs have had a lesser financial impact on homebuyers than initially anticipated, thereby preventing a supply flood from forced sellers.

However, the resurgence in the housing sector comes when higher borrowing costs are anticipated to hinder economic growth. Analysts warn that the upswing in the housing market could potentially lead to inflationary pressures, complicating the central bank's plans to implement interest rate cuts.

"The Bank of Canada at the end of the day is probably not going to be too thrilled if the housing market really starts to ramp up," Robert Kavcic, a senior economist at BMO Capital Markets, told Reuters.&nbsp;

Market Performance and Regional Impacts

The Greater Toronto Area, Canada's most populous metropolitan region, witnessed a noteworthy improvement in April, with the average home price rising for a third consecutive month on a month-over-month basis.

Similarly, other major markets across the country have also experienced gains, signaling a broader recovery trend, Reuters reported.

Surprisingly, despite the higher borrowing costs, mortgage delinquency rates have remained relatively low in Canada. Implementing stress tests, ensuring borrowers can manage their mortgages even with interest rates two&nbsp;percentage points higher than their loan rate, has contributed to this stability.

Additionally, variable-rate borrowers have been shielded from the impact of higher interest rates as lenders temporarily extended the amortization period, thereby keeping their payments unchanged. The absence of forced selling has played a crucial role in stabilizing the housing market swiftly.

Potential Risks and Tailwinds

However, the optimistic scenario could face challenges in the coming months.

Royal Bank of Canada has recently cautioned about the potential increase in mortgage delinquencies by over a third in the coming year, posing a risk to the housing market's stability.

There is also apprehension about the potential spillover effects from stress in the U.S. regional banking sector into Canada. Clues about such risks may emerge from the Bank of Canada's Financial System Review, an annual assessment of the nation's financial system tensions, scheduled for release soon.

However, supply shortfalls, record levels of immigration, and the labor market's strength could&nbsp;support Canada's housing market's recovery.&nbsp;

In a tale of revival amidst chaos, Canada's housing market has displayed encouraging signs of recovery following a prolonged slump. After months of grappling with a struggling housing market, the Bank of Canada in April stopped its interest rate hikes, maintaining the benchmark rate at a 15-year high of 4.

In a tale of revival amidst chaos, Canada's housing market has displayed encouraging signs of recovery following a prolonged slump. After months of grappling with a struggling housing market, the Bank of Canada in April stopped its interest rate hikes, maintaining the benchmark rate at a 15-year high of 4.50 percent since January. This decision appears to have contributed to the recent housing market revival. Interestingly, higher borrowing costs have had a lesser financial impact on homebuyers than initially anticipated, thereby preventing a supply flood from forced sellers. However, the resurgence in the housing sector comes when higher borrowing costs are anticipated to hinder economic growth. Analysts warn that the upswing in the housing market could potentially lead to inflationary pressures, complicating the central bank's plans to implement interest rate cuts. "The Bank of Canada at the end of the day is probably not going to be too thrilled if the housing market really starts to ramp up," Robert Kavcic, a senior economist at BMO Capital Markets, told Reuters. Market Performance and Regional Impacts The Greater Toronto Area, Canada's most populous metropolitan region, witnessed a noteworthy improvement in April, with the average home price rising for a third consecutive month on a month-over-month basis. Similarly, other major markets across the country have also experienced gains, signaling a broader recovery trend, Reuters reported. Surprisingly, despite the higher borrowing costs, mortgage delinquency rates have remained relatively low in Canada. Implementing stress tests, ensuring borrowers can manage their mortgages even with interest rates two percentage points higher than their loan rate, has contributed to this stability. Additionally, variable-rate borrowers have been shielded from the impact of higher interest rates as lenders temporarily extended the amortization period, thereby keeping their payments unchanged. The absence of forced selling has played a crucial role in stabilizing the housing market swiftly. Potential Risks and Tailwinds However, the optimistic scenario could face challenges in the coming months. Royal Bank of Canada has recently cautioned about the potential increase in mortgage delinquencies by over a third in the coming year, posing a risk to the housing market's stability. There is also apprehension about the potential spillover effects from stress in the U.S. regional banking sector into Canada. Clues about such risks may emerge from the Bank of Canada's Financial System Review, an annual assessment of the nation's financial system tensions, scheduled for release soon. However, supply shortfalls, record levels of immigration, and the labor market's strength could support Canada's housing market's recovery.

Mortgage mayhem & recoveries: Canada's housing market defies the odds

Canada's largest strike by federal workers is nearing&nbsp;its third week, causing a backlog in immigration services and leaving thousands of people in limbo.&nbsp;

The strike, which began on April 19, has affected everyone from migrant workers to sponsored relatives, from foreign students to refugee claimants whose hearings have been cancelled.&nbsp;

Reuters reports&nbsp;that while wages are a primary sticking point for the 155,000 federal public servants on strike, the union is also demanding remote work be included in its collective agreement. Other important sticking points during the negotiations include who determines remote work regulations, contracts, and seniority during layoffs.

Since 2021, the union and government have been negotiating a new contract. The union claims its members need assistance with rising living costs, while the government claims it wants an agreement that is fair to both the union and taxpayers.

Both sides agree that members should be paid more but disagree on how much. The government has declared officially that it will not grant a rise of more than 9 percent over three years, whereas the union seeks a greater rise.

Strike threatens to hamper growth

The delay caused by the strike is putting pressure on&nbsp;an already backlogged immigration system trying to catch up with pandemic delays.

Canada has raised its immigration target to a record 500,000 additional permanent residents per year by 2025 to support sectors with labour shortages, ranging from healthcare to construction. However, some would-be newcomers continue to wait&nbsp;abroad, while others have been left wondering whether their permits will expire.&nbsp;

The strike comes at a time when Canada's reduced birth rate makes immigration a major engine of economic growth, and a malfunctioning immigration system might impede efforts to attract smart immigrants.

Tens of thousands of files have not been processed as a result of the strike, according to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Minister Sean Fraser. And the longer the strike continues, the more serious the consequences will be.&nbsp;

Reuters quotes Frazer as saying: "We’re going to continue to work to identify priority areas where people lives may be in danger to ensure we can still maintain those essential functions."&nbsp;

As of February 1 2022, Canada had a logjam of more than 1.8 million immigration petitions, according to data from its immigration department. This included&nbsp;519,030 petitions for permanent residence, 848,598 applications for temporary residency and 448,000 applicants for Canadian citizenship.

However, immigration department officials whose jobs have been disrupted by the strike were unable to provide specifics on the strike's effects on immigration services.&nbsp;

With no end in sight to the strike, the question that many are asking -&nbsp;how long is the wait for migrating to Canada?

(With agency inputs)&nbsp;

Canada's largest strike by federal workers is nearing its third week, causing a backlog in immigration services and leaving thousands of people in limbo. The strike, which began on April 19, has affected everyone from migrant workers to sponsored relatives, from foreign students to refugee claimants whose hearings have been cancelled.

Canada's largest strike by federal workers is nearing its third week, causing a backlog in immigration services and leaving thousands of people in limbo. The strike, which began on April 19, has affected everyone from migrant workers to sponsored relatives, from foreign students to refugee claimants whose hearings have been cancelled. Reuters reports that while wages are a primary sticking point for the 155,000 federal public servants on strike, the union is also demanding remote work be included in its collective agreement. Other important sticking points during the negotiations include who determines remote work regulations, contracts, and seniority during layoffs. Since 2021, the union and government have been negotiating a new contract. The union claims its members need assistance with rising living costs, while the government claims it wants an agreement that is fair to both the union and taxpayers. Both sides agree that members should be paid more but disagree on how much. The government has declared officially that it will not grant a rise of more than 9 percent over three years, whereas the union seeks a greater rise. Strike threatens to hamper growth The delay caused by the strike is putting pressure on an already backlogged immigration system trying to catch up with pandemic delays. Canada has raised its immigration target to a record 500,000 additional permanent residents per year by 2025 to support sectors with labour shortages, ranging from healthcare to construction. However, some would-be newcomers continue to wait abroad, while others have been left wondering whether their permits will expire. The strike comes at a time when Canada's reduced birth rate makes immigration a major engine of economic growth, and a malfunctioning immigration system might impede efforts to attract smart immigrants. Tens of thousands of files have not been processed as a result of the strike, according to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Minister Sean Fraser. And the longer the strike continues, the more serious the consequences will be. Reuters quotes Frazer as saying: "We’re going to continue to work to identify priority areas where people lives may be in danger to ensure we can still maintain those essential functions." As of February 1 2022, Canada had a logjam of more than 1.8 million immigration petitions, according to data from its immigration department. This included 519,030 petitions for permanent residence, 848,598 applications for temporary residency and 448,000 applicants for Canadian citizenship. However, immigration department officials whose jobs have been disrupted by the strike were unable to provide specifics on the strike's effects on immigration services. With no end in sight to the strike, the question that many are asking - how long is the wait for migrating to Canada? (With agency inputs)

Canada: Immigration in limbo as federal strike nears third week

In Pics | Canada deploys military forces to help combat Alberta wildfires

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday (May 9) that Beijing is expelling Canada's consul in Shanghai — a tit-for-tat move after Ottawa announced it was sending home a Chinese diplomat, who is accused of trying to intimidate a lawmaker. China also warned Canada to stop "unreasonable provocations".&nbsp;

Beijing retaliated and promised to take "resolute countermeasures" when Canada expelled Chinese diplomat, Zhao Wei, declaring him "persona non grata" and further ordering her to leave the country. The incident has triggered a new diplomatic row between the nations amid persisting unsolved issues. Zhao has been asked to leave Canada within five days.&nbsp;

Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said that the government will "not tolerate any form of foreign interference" in its internal affairs. She said, "We remain firm in our resolve that defending our democracy is of the utmost importance." Joly added that the foreign diplomats in Canada "have been warned that if they engage in this type of behaviour, they will be sent home."&nbsp;

China sees it as a provocation as it said that the move had "sabotaged" relations between the two nations. A statement from the Chinese embassy in Canada said: "The Chinese side will take resolute countermeasures and all consequences arising therefrom shall be borne by the Canadian side." The statement further called on Ottawa to "step back from the brink".&nbsp;

<h2>What was the case?&nbsp;</h2>

The row erupted when reports in local media emerged alleging that China's intelligence agency had planned to target parliamentarian Michael Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong with sanctions for voting in February 2021 for a motion condemning Beijing's conduct in the Xinjiang region as genocide.&nbsp;

The Globe and Mail newspaper last week cited a Canadian Security Intelligence Service document as saying that this was "almost certainly meant to make an example of this MP and deter others from taking anti-PRC (People's Republic of China) positions."&nbsp;

<h2>Trudeau's reaction to the whole incident</h2>

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the nation won't be intimidated by China's move. Trudeau told reporters in Ottawa: "We decided that we needed to move forward in a responsible way to send a very clear message that we will not accept foreign interference and whatever next choices they make, we will not be intimidated."&nbsp;

<h2>Escalating tensions between China and Canada&nbsp;</h2>

Tensions have been escalating between the nations ever since Trudeau was asked to take strict action against Beijing in the aftermath of reports that China apparently attempted to sway Canada's 2019 and 2021 elections.&nbsp;

In an&nbsp;unveiled reference to China, several critics have also pointed out the rumours of foreign meddling in elections. As quoted by news agency AFP, Genevieve Tellier, a politics professor at the University of Ottawa, said, "There was a real political risk for the Trudeau government in this affair, which is taking a gamble by showing its muscles in this way."&nbsp;

Tensions between China and Canada have been simmering for a long time, and several incidents worsened the situation. One such incident was Canada's arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou in 2018 and&nbsp;the detention of two Canadian nationals, Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, in China in apparent retaliation. All three have been released, but the ties remain&nbsp;strained.&nbsp;

Beijing was accused of using the two men in a bout of "hostage diplomacy" to pressure Ottawa into releasing Meng. Reconciliation efforts were must less than the issues that kept embroiling both sides.&nbsp;

In September 2021, Meng, who is also the daughter of the Chinese telecom giant's billionaire founder, was allowed to return to China, thanks to a deal with US prosecutors. The two Michaels were also released immediately after that. All charges against Meng were also dropped by the US Justice Department in December 2022.&nbsp;

Uyghur "genocide" is another matter of contention between both nations as Canada has been vocal about China's alleged human rights violations. The accusations have worsened relations.&nbsp;

In fact, Canadian lawmakers even voted overwhelmingly in 2021 to declare China's treatment of Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslim minorities in its northwestern Xinjiang region as "genocide".&nbsp;

In February 2023, the Canadian parliament unanimously passed a non-binding proposal to take in 10,000 Uyghur refugees who have fled China but are now facing pressure to return.&nbsp;

Fuel was added to&nbsp;the fire after Chinese President Xi Jinping scolded Trudeau&nbsp;on camera at the G20 summit in Indonesia last year in November — an incident which became quite popular. Video recorded by reporters at the summit showed Xi slamming Trudeau over the leaked details of talks between them.&nbsp;

The comments came after Trudeau raised with Xi the issue of what he called Chinese "interference" with Canadian citizens and Beijing's alleged meddling with Canada's democratic and judicial systems.&nbsp;

Not&nbsp;just diplomatic rows, both nations have also engaged in tech battles, with Canada moving to curb the presence of Chinese firms in its communications infrastructure. Canada even banned a few Chinese apps over national security concerns.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday (May 9) that Beijing is expelling Canada's consul in Shanghai — a tit-for-tat move after Ottawa announced it was sending home a Chinese diplomat, who is accused of trying to intimidate a lawmaker.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said on Tuesday (May 9) that Beijing is expelling Canada's consul in Shanghai — a tit-for-tat move after Ottawa announced it was sending home a Chinese diplomat, who is accused of trying to intimidate a lawmaker. China also warned Canada to stop "unreasonable provocations". Beijing retaliated and promised to take "resolute countermeasures" when Canada expelled Chinese diplomat, Zhao Wei, declaring him "persona non grata" and further ordering her to leave the country. The incident has triggered a new diplomatic row between the nations amid persisting unsolved issues. Zhao has been asked to leave Canada within five days. Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said that the government will "not tolerate any form of foreign interference" in its internal affairs. She said, "We remain firm in our resolve that defending our democracy is of the utmost importance." Joly added that the foreign diplomats in Canada "have been warned that if they engage in this type of behaviour, they will be sent home." China sees it as a provocation as it said that the move had "sabotaged" relations between the two nations. A statement from the Chinese embassy in Canada said: "The Chinese side will take resolute countermeasures and all consequences arising therefrom shall be borne by the Canadian side." The statement further called on Ottawa to "step back from the brink". What was the case? The row erupted when reports in local media emerged alleging that China's intelligence agency had planned to target parliamentarian Michael Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong with sanctions for voting in February 2021 for a motion condemning Beijing's conduct in the Xinjiang region as genocide. The Globe and Mail newspaper last week cited a Canadian Security Intelligence Service document as saying that this was "almost certainly meant to make an example of this MP and deter others from taking anti-PRC (People's Republic of China) positions." Trudeau's reaction to the whole incident Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that the nation won't be intimidated by China's move. Trudeau told reporters in Ottawa: "We decided that we needed to move forward in a responsible way to send a very clear message that we will not accept foreign interference and whatever next choices they make, we will not be intimidated." Escalating tensions between China and Canada Tensions have been escalating between the nations ever since Trudeau was asked to take strict action against Beijing in the aftermath of reports that China apparently attempted to sway Canada's 2019 and 2021 elections. In an unveiled reference to China, several critics have also pointed out the rumours of foreign meddling in elections. As quoted by news agency AFP, Genevieve Tellier, a politics professor at the University of Ottawa, said, "There was a real political risk for the Trudeau government in this affair, which is taking a gamble by showing its muscles in this way." Tensions between China and Canada have been simmering for a long time, and several incidents worsened the situation. One such incident was Canada's arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou in 2018 and the detention of two Canadian nationals, Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor, in China in apparent retaliation. All three have been released, but the ties remain strained. Beijing was accused of using the two men in a bout of "hostage diplomacy" to pressure Ottawa into releasing Meng. Reconciliation efforts were must less than the issues that kept embroiling both sides. In September 2021, Meng, who is also the daughter of the Chinese telecom giant's billionaire founder, was allowed to return to China, thanks to a deal with US prosecutors. The two Michaels were also released immediately after that. All charges against Meng were also dropped by the US Justice Department in December 2022. Uyghur "genocide" is another matter of contention between both nations as Canada has been vocal about China's alleged human rights violations. The accusations have worsened relations. In fact, Canadian lawmakers even voted overwhelmingly in 2021 to declare China's treatment of Uyghurs and other Turkic Muslim minorities in its northwestern Xinjiang region as "genocide". In February 2023, the Canadian parliament unanimously passed a non-binding proposal to take in 10,000 Uyghur refugees who have fled China but are now facing pressure to return. Fuel was added to the fire after Chinese President Xi Jinping scolded Trudeau on camera at the G20 summit in Indonesia last year in November — an incident which became quite popular. Video recorded by reporters at the summit showed Xi slamming Trudeau over the leaked details of talks between them. The comments came after Trudeau raised with Xi the issue of what he called Chinese "interference" with Canadian citizens and Beijing's alleged meddling with Canada's democratic and judicial systems. Not just diplomatic rows, both nations have also engaged in tech battles, with Canada moving to curb the presence of Chinese firms in its communications infrastructure. Canada even banned a few Chinese apps over national security concerns. (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.

From Huawei's Meng arrest to Xi-Trudeau spat: Issues that led to strained China-Canada ties

Canada, on Monday (May 8), moved to expel Toronto-based Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei after an intelligence report accused him of trying to target a Canadian lawmaker, critical of China’s treatment of its Uyghur Muslim minority.&nbsp;

The report in question was authored by the spy agency, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) back in 2021, addressing the Chinese influence in Canada which also included information about potential threats to Conservative Member of Parliament Michael Chong and his family.

Chinese diplomat’s expulsion

“Canada has decided to declare persona non grata Mr. Zhao Wei,” said Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, in a statement, as quoted by Reuters. She added, “The decision has been taken after careful consideration of all factors at play.”

“I have been clear: we will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs. Diplomats in Canada have been warned that if they engage in this type of behaviour, they will be sent home,” said Joly.&nbsp;

What were the allegations?

China, as per the report, targeted Chong who has been a staunch supporter of Uyghur rights and also lent its support to a successful motion that said that the ongoing human rights abuses by China on its Uyghur minority accounts for genocide.&nbsp;

As per the Canadian intelligence report from 2021 quoted by the country’s Globe and Mail newspaper, Beijing requested details about Chong and his family. In a supposed intimidation effort and make “an example” and also to “deter others from taking anti-PRC position,” the paper reported.&nbsp;

The newspaper said China’s intelligence agency had planned to target Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong with sanctions for voting in favour of a motion condemning Beijing’s conduct in the Xinjiang region as genocide.

The Globe, citing an unnamed national security source, said Zhao was involved in gathering information about Chong. The allegations and details from the CSIS report came to light on May 1 to which the Canadian MP has since expressed his profound disappointment after he found out about the potential threat to his family in Hong Kong.&nbsp; 
 
How Beijing has reacted to these claims

Beijing had since denied these claims and said it has never interfered in Canada’s internal affairs and has no interest to do so. Additionally, China’s Toronto consulate-general, last week said that the report on Chong has “no factual basis and is purely baseless.”&nbsp;

The ongoing diplomat expulsion row has also escalated the already tense Sino-Canadian relations. Last week, Canada also summoned China’s ambassador over the allegations, Beijing on Friday slammed what it called “groundless slander and defamation” by Ottawa.&nbsp; 
 
The Canadian PM&nbsp;

Chong also criticised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government for inaction. Meanwhile, Trudeau said that he too found out about the intelligence report from the newspaper and blamed the spy agency for not passing on the information to him on time.&nbsp;

The Canadian PM, on Wednesday, said the agency has now been directed to immediately pass on information about threats to members of parliament and their families. This also comes as Trudeau has been facing growing pressure to take a hard line with Beijing following revelations that it sought to sway the country’s 2019 and 2021 elections.&nbsp; 
 
China responds to expulsion&nbsp; 
 
In a seemingly angry&nbsp;response, China said&nbsp;Canada had "sabotaged" relations between the two nations with this ouster. "The Chinese side will take resolute countermeasures and all consequences arising therefrom shall be borne by the Canadian side," said the&nbsp;Chinese embassy in Canada said Monday, calling on Ottawa to "step back from the brink."

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Canada, on Monday (May 8), moved to expel Toronto-based Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei after an intelligence report accused him of trying to target a Canadian lawmaker, critical of China’s treatment of its Uyghur Muslim minority.

Canada, on Monday (May 8), moved to expel Toronto-based Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei after an intelligence report accused him of trying to target a Canadian lawmaker, critical of China’s treatment of its Uyghur Muslim minority. The report in question was authored by the spy agency, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) back in 2021, addressing the Chinese influence in Canada which also included information about potential threats to Conservative Member of Parliament Michael Chong and his family. Chinese diplomat’s expulsion “Canada has decided to declare persona non grata Mr. Zhao Wei,” said Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, in a statement, as quoted by Reuters. She added, “The decision has been taken after careful consideration of all factors at play.” “I have been clear: we will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs. Diplomats in Canada have been warned that if they engage in this type of behaviour, they will be sent home,” said Joly. What were the allegations? China, as per the report, targeted Chong who has been a staunch supporter of Uyghur rights and also lent its support to a successful motion that said that the ongoing human rights abuses 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, Beijing requested details about Chong and his family. In a supposed intimidation effort and make “an example” and also to “deter others from taking anti-PRC position,” the paper reported. The newspaper said China’s intelligence agency had planned to target Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong with sanctions for voting in favour of a motion condemning Beijing’s conduct in the Xinjiang region as genocide. The Globe, citing an unnamed national security source, said Zhao was involved in gathering information about Chong. The allegations and details from the CSIS report came to light on May 1 to which the Canadian MP has since expressed his profound disappointment after he found out about the potential threat to his family in Hong Kong. How Beijing has reacted to these claims Beijing had since denied these claims and said it has never interfered in Canada’s internal affairs and has no interest to do so. Additionally, China’s Toronto consulate-general, last week said that the report on Chong has “no factual basis and is purely baseless.” The ongoing diplomat expulsion row has also escalated the already tense Sino-Canadian relations. Last week, Canada also summoned China’s ambassador over the allegations, Beijing on Friday slammed what it called “groundless slander and defamation” by Ottawa. The Canadian PM Chong also criticised Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government for inaction. Meanwhile, Trudeau said that he too found out about the intelligence report from the newspaper and blamed the spy agency for not passing on the information to him on time. The Canadian PM, on Wednesday, said the agency has now been directed to immediately pass on information about threats to members of parliament and their families. This also comes as Trudeau has been facing growing pressure to take a hard line with Beijing following revelations that it sought to sway the country’s 2019 and 2021 elections. China responds to expulsion In a seemingly angry response, China said Canada had "sabotaged" relations between the two nations with this ouster. "The Chinese side will take resolute countermeasures and all consequences arising therefrom shall be borne by the Canadian side," said the Chinese embassy in Canada said Monday, calling on Ottawa to "step back from the brink." (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 expels Chinese diplomat who allegedly sought to intimidate lawmaker; Beijing responds

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - In Canada's primary oil-producing province of Alberta, cooler weather on Monday helped firefighters battle extensive wildfires, but the government warned it may be months before all the blazes are put out.

Wildfires in Canada | Wildfires in Russia | Kenya Floods | Floods in DR Congo

China say it is expelling Canada's consul in Shanghai. Beijing's decision comes after Ottawa said it was sending home a diplomat accused of trying to intimidate a lawmaker critical of China. The expulsions plunge the two nations into a fresh diplomatic row after years of souring relations. Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has faced growing pressure to take a hard line with Beijing. Recent revelations suggest china sought to sway Canada's 2019 and 2021 elections. Ties have been tense since Canada's 2018 arrest of a top Huawei executive and the detention of two Canadian nationals in China, in apparent retaliation. All three have been released, but Beijing has continued to blast Ottawa for aligning with Washington's China policy. On the other hand, Canadian officials have regularly accused China of interference.

Canada slams China for interference; Diplomatic expulsions plunge 2 nations into fresh row | Details

Canadian Defence Minister Anita Anand &nbsp;said on Monday (May 9) that Canada wanted to work more closely with allies like Australia, United States and the UK in areas of advanced technologies. She was asked if the country wanted to join the AUKUS alliance.&nbsp;

"Canada is highly interested in furthering cooperation on AI, quantum computing and other advanced technologies with a defense nexus with our closest allies," Anand told reporters in Ottawa, when asked about a newspaper report saying Ottawa was seeking to join the AUKUS alliance.

AUKUS is a trilateral security pact between Australia, the UK and the US made in 2021. It is viewed by many globally to be an alliance aimed at containing growing Chinese influence. The US and the UK are planning to trasfer high-level nuclear submarine technology to Australia. China has in past one year, made increasing forays into regions traditionally considered as Australia's backyard.

Watch | Aukus: Nuclear submarines will cost Australia up to $368 billion

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/aukus-nuclear-submarines-will-cost-australia-up-to-368-billion-587094/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Globe and Mail reported on Monday citing sources that Canada wants to take advantage of info-sharing and advanced technologies development part of the alliance. This includes undersea defense capabilities. The news outlet added that Canada was seeking to join the non-nuclear component of AUKUS.

AUKUS has attracted criticism from countries like France and China. As a result of AUKUS, France lost its own submarine deal with Australia. The deal was struck before the AUKUS pact and was dumped soon when the alliance was formed. Canada's exclusion from the alliance was also seen as a snub by some for a country already in the intelligence-sharing Five Eyes alliance with AUKUS members and New Zealand.

"Our ties with our Five Eyes allies are strong, and indeed we remain interested in furthering cooperation in AI and other innovation efforts with our allies," Anand said.

China is undertaking the largest military buildup of any country since the end of World War Two, which was occurring "without transparency or reassurance to the Indo-Pacific region of China's strategic intent", a review by Australian government last month said.

China is also engaged in strategic competition in Australia's near neighbourhood.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-aukus-deal-sparks-proliferation-of-nuclear-weapons-debate-heres-why-572021">Explained | AUKUS submarine deal sparks nuclear proliferation concerns. Here's why</a>

A public version of the classified report released on Monday said Australia must "avoid the highest level of strategic risk we now face as a nation: the prospect of major conflict in the region".

The military threat to Australia does not require invasion in the "missile age", it said.

Australia will work more closely with its major ally the United States, including increased bilateral military planning, joint patrols and hosting more rotations of U.S. forces, including submarines, it said.

(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 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Canadian Defence Minister Anita Anand said on Monday (May 9) that Canada wanted to work more closely with allies like Australia, United States and the UK in areas of advanced technologies.

Canadian Defence Minister Anita Anand said on Monday (May 9) that Canada wanted to work more closely with allies like Australia, United States and the UK in areas of advanced technologies. She was asked if the country wanted to join the AUKUS alliance. "Canada is highly interested in furthering cooperation on AI, quantum computing and other advanced technologies with a defense nexus with our closest allies," Anand told reporters in Ottawa, when asked about a newspaper report saying Ottawa was seeking to join the AUKUS alliance. AUKUS is a trilateral security pact between Australia, the UK and the US made in 2021. It is viewed by many globally to be an alliance aimed at containing growing Chinese influence. The US and the UK are planning to trasfer high-level nuclear submarine technology to Australia. China has in past one year, made increasing forays into regions traditionally considered as Australia's backyard. Watch | Aukus: Nuclear submarines will cost Australia up to $368 billion × The Globe and Mail reported on Monday citing sources that Canada wants to take advantage of info-sharing and advanced technologies development part of the alliance. This includes undersea defense capabilities. The news outlet added that Canada was seeking to join the non-nuclear component of AUKUS. AUKUS has attracted criticism from countries like France and China. As a result of AUKUS, France lost its own submarine deal with Australia. The deal was struck before the AUKUS pact and was dumped soon when the alliance was formed. Canada's exclusion from the alliance was also seen as a snub by some for a country already in the intelligence-sharing Five Eyes alliance with AUKUS members and New Zealand. "Our ties with our Five Eyes allies are strong, and indeed we remain interested in furthering cooperation in AI and other innovation efforts with our allies," Anand said. China is undertaking the largest military buildup of any country since the end of World War Two, which was occurring "without transparency or reassurance to the Indo-Pacific region of China's strategic intent", a review by Australian government last month said. China is also engaged in strategic competition in Australia's near neighbourhood. Also Read | Explained | AUKUS submarine deal sparks nuclear proliferation concerns. Here's why A public version of the classified report released on Monday said Australia must "avoid the highest level of strategic risk we now face as a nation: the prospect of major conflict in the region". The military threat to Australia does not require invasion in the "missile age", it said. Australia will work more closely with its major ally the United States, including increased bilateral military planning, joint patrols and hosting more rotations of U.S. forces, including submarines, it said. (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 eyes more non-nuclear cooperation with AUKUS allies

canada

Canada, News on Canada, stories on Canada, articles on Canada, Canada stories at Wion, Canada news, Canada latest news