<p>In another shocking incident from Canada, a tableau celebrating the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards was paraded in Brampton on June 4. A video showing the same has been making rounds on the internet, in which the statue of Indira Gandhi can be seen drenched in blood.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indira Gandhi, the first female prime minister of India, was assassinated on October 31, 1984, by her bodyguards months after ‘Operation Bluestar’ was carried out. Under Operation Bluestar, the Indian Army was ordered to remove pro-Khalistan militants occupying the Golden Temple in India’s Amritsar city. The operation prompted massive protests by the Sikh community, for which the Golden Temple is the holiest site.</p>

<h2><strong>Anger erupts on Indian internet</strong></h2>

<p>As the video of the controversial tableau surfaced on the Indian internet, social media users were quick to target Canada’s Justin Trudeau administration for blatant negligence. “Shame on Justin Trudeau govt which relies on Khalistani elements for vote bank,” wrote a Twitter user named Anshul Saxena. He added, “How Canada allowed this? Celebrating the killing of former Prime Minister of India is not freedom of expression.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Tableau depicting Indira Gandhi's assassination was part of parade in Brampton.<br />
<br />
How Canada allowed this?<br />
<br />
Celebrating the killing of former Prime Minister of India is not freedom of expression.<br />
<br />
Shame on Justin Trudeau govt which relies on Khalistani elements for vote bank. <a href="https://t.co/mam8TI5URY">pic.twitter.com/mam8TI5URY</a></p>
— Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) <a href="https://twitter.com/AskAnshul/status/1666366386468458496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Canada that pontificates to India on treatment of farmers and minorities is allowing the Khalistani goons to parade this float of PM Indira Gandhi’s assassination.<br />
<br />
Hope India takes a note and gives them a befitting treatment <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://t.co/ajxHQZwZui">pic.twitter.com/ajxHQZwZui</a></p>
— Monica Verma (@TrulyMonica) <a href="https://twitter.com/TrulyMonica/status/1666432081248010243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Canada elections: Justin Trudeau faces heat&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Another user named Monica Verma wrote in her tweet, “Hope India takes a note and gives them a befitting treatment.”</p>

<h2><strong>Canadian NSA warns India</strong></h2>

<p>This shocking development comes days after the National Security Advisor to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remarked that India was meddling in Canada’s internal affairs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NSA Jody Thomas on Friday said, “When I talk about foreign interference and economic security, I’m now talking about a number of state actors and non-state proxies.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/justin-trudeaus-nsa-accuses-india-of-meddling-in-canadas-internal-affairs-601380"><strong>Also Read|&nbsp;Justin Trudeau’s NSA accuses India of meddling in Canada’s internal affairs</strong></a></p>

<p>“This includes Russia, Iran, India. That said, the actor that comes up most on these issues, and it’s no surprise to anybody, is China,” she added.</p>

<h2><strong>Tussle between India and Canada</strong></h2>

<p>India has expressed strong protest to the Canadian government regarding the involvement of radical Khalistani elements in organising referendums in North American countries and interfering in India's internal matters, particularly the farmers' protests. Despite India's urging for action, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has not taken any steps to address the growing Khalistani activism in Canada.</p>

<h2><strong>Is Jagmeet Singh behind Trudeau’s India policy?</strong></h2>

<p>Trudeau leads a minority government that relies on support from the New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Jagmeet Singh, who is known for his pro-Khalistan comments. The NDP holds 24 seats in parliament, making their support crucial for the survival of the Trudeau government.</p>

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In another shocking incident from Canada, a tableau celebrating the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards was paraded in Brampton on June 4.

In another shocking incident from Canada, a tableau celebrating the assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi by her Sikh bodyguards was paraded in Brampton on June 4. A video showing the same has been making rounds on the internet, in which the statue of Indira Gandhi can be seen drenched in blood. Indira Gandhi, the first female prime minister of India, was assassinated on October 31, 1984, by her bodyguards months after ‘Operation Bluestar’ was carried out. Under Operation Bluestar, the Indian Army was ordered to remove pro-Khalistan militants occupying the Golden Temple in India’s Amritsar city. The operation prompted massive protests by the Sikh community, for which the Golden Temple is the holiest site. Anger erupts on Indian internet As the video of the controversial tableau surfaced on the Indian internet, social media users were quick to target Canada’s Justin Trudeau administration for blatant negligence. “Shame on Justin Trudeau govt which relies on Khalistani elements for vote bank,” wrote a Twitter user named Anshul Saxena. He added, “How Canada allowed this? Celebrating the killing of former Prime Minister of India is not freedom of expression.” Tableau depicting Indira Gandhi's assassination was part of parade in Brampton. How Canada allowed this? Celebrating the killing of former Prime Minister of India is not freedom of expression. Shame on Justin Trudeau govt which relies on Khalistani elements for vote bank. pic.twitter.com/mam8TI5URY — Anshul Saxena (@AskAnshul) June 7, 2023 × Canada that pontificates to India on treatment of farmers and minorities is allowing the Khalistani goons to parade this float of PM Indira Gandhi’s assassination. Hope India takes a note and gives them a befitting treatment @DrSJaishankar pic.twitter.com/ajxHQZwZui — Monica Verma (@TrulyMonica) June 7, 2023 × Watch: Canada elections: Justin Trudeau faces heat × Another user named Monica Verma wrote in her tweet, “Hope India takes a note and gives them a befitting treatment.” Canadian NSA warns India This shocking development comes days after the National Security Advisor to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remarked that India was meddling in Canada’s internal affairs. NSA Jody Thomas on Friday said, “When I talk about foreign interference and economic security, I’m now talking about a number of state actors and non-state proxies.” Also Read| Justin Trudeau’s NSA accuses India of meddling in Canada’s internal affairs “This includes Russia, Iran, India. That said, the actor that comes up most on these issues, and it’s no surprise to anybody, is China,” she added. Tussle between India and Canada India has expressed strong protest to the Canadian government regarding the involvement of radical Khalistani elements in organising referendums in North American countries and interfering in India's internal matters, particularly the farmers' protests. Despite India's urging for action, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has not taken any steps to address the growing Khalistani activism in Canada. Is Jagmeet Singh behind Trudeau’s India policy? Trudeau leads a minority government that relies on support from the New Democratic Party (NDP), led by Jagmeet Singh, who is known for his pro-Khalistan comments. The NDP holds 24 seats in parliament, making their support crucial for the survival of the Trudeau government. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Watch: Tableau celebrating death of former Indian PM Indira Gandhi surfaces in Canada

An eye-watering and cough-inducing smoky haze from Canadian wildfires is now starting to impact parts of the United States.

Canada wildfires lead to air-quality alerts in US | WION Climate Tracker

In Pics | Orange haze from Canada wildfires shroud parts of US

<p>Canada’s National Security Advisor (NSA) has accused India of meddling in the country’s affairs, putting the world’s biggest democracy in the league of authoritative nations such as Russia, China and Iran.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s NSA Jody Thomas on Friday said, “When I talk about foreign interference and economic security, I’m now talking about a number of state actors and non-state proxies.”</p>

<p>“This includes Russia, Iran, India. That said, the actor that comes up most on these issues, and it’s no surprise to anybody, is China,” she added.</p>

<h2><strong>'India-Canada ties to take a hit'</strong></h2>

<p>University of British Columbia professor Vina Nadjibulla was quoted by Toronto Sun as saying that the recent allegations levelled by the Canadian NSA could pose a serious challenge to the Indo-Canadian ties. Noting that the allegations were "striking", Nadjibulla said, “That obviously has to do with our diaspora communities and the politics there.”</p>

<p>“The relationship we have diplomatically with India is improving rapidly, but I think we would be kidding ourselves if we were not to acknowledge some of the diaspora politics and local issues here in Canada, which will have a significant impact,” she further said.</p>

<h2><strong>Is NDP driving Trudeau’s India policy?</strong></h2>

<p>Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) led by Jagmeet Singh, who is known for his pro-Khalistan comments, has long accused India of interfering in Canadian affairs. He has even advised Ottawa to downgrade diplomatic relations with India over so-called human rights concerns.</p>

<p>In March this year, Jagmeet Singh was condemned on social media for trying to meddle in India’s internal affairs after he raised “concerns” over India’s actions against Khalistan sympathiser Amritpal Singh.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Canada's population sees record growth&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The Canadian politician tweeted, “These draconian measures are unsettling for many given their historical use to execute extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances during the 1984 Sikh Genocide."</p>

<h2><strong>Trudeau also accused of meddling in India’s affairs</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier in 2020, the Indian government had accused the Justin Trudeau administration of wading into India’s internal matters after it passed remarks on India’s farmers’ protest. The Canadian PM backed the farmers' protest in India while stating that Canada will always be there to defend the rights of peaceful protests.</p>

<p>India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh then took strong objection to Trudeau’s comments and said, “India is not any other country that someone can say anything."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/canada-meta-to-withdraw-news-access-on-facebook-instagram-for-some-users-heres-why-599649"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Canada: Meta to withdraw news access on Facebook, Instagram for some users. Here's why</strong></a></p>

<p>“First of all, I would like to say about the prime minister of any country that comment should not be made about India's internal affairs. India does not require any outside interference. We will sort out issues by ourselves. It is an internal matter of India. No country in the world has the right to comment on India's internal affairs," Singh added.</p>

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Canada’s National Security Advisor (NSA) has accused India of meddling in the country’s affairs, putting the world’s biggest democracy in the league of authoritative nations such as Russia, China and Iran.

Canada’s National Security Advisor (NSA) has accused India of meddling in the country’s affairs, putting the world’s biggest democracy in the league of authoritative nations such as Russia, China and Iran. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s NSA Jody Thomas on Friday said, “When I talk about foreign interference and economic security, I’m now talking about a number of state actors and non-state proxies.” “This includes Russia, Iran, India. That said, the actor that comes up most on these issues, and it’s no surprise to anybody, is China,” she added. 'India-Canada ties to take a hit' University of British Columbia professor Vina Nadjibulla was quoted by Toronto Sun as saying that the recent allegations levelled by the Canadian NSA could pose a serious challenge to the Indo-Canadian ties. Noting that the allegations were "striking", Nadjibulla said, “That obviously has to do with our diaspora communities and the politics there.” “The relationship we have diplomatically with India is improving rapidly, but I think we would be kidding ourselves if we were not to acknowledge some of the diaspora politics and local issues here in Canada, which will have a significant impact,” she further said. Is NDP driving Trudeau’s India policy? Canada’s New Democratic Party (NDP) led by Jagmeet Singh, who is known for his pro-Khalistan comments, has long accused India of interfering in Canadian affairs. He has even advised Ottawa to downgrade diplomatic relations with India over so-called human rights concerns. In March this year, Jagmeet Singh was condemned on social media for trying to meddle in India’s internal affairs after he raised “concerns” over India’s actions against Khalistan sympathiser Amritpal Singh. Watch: Gravitas: Canada's population sees record growth × The Canadian politician tweeted, “These draconian measures are unsettling for many given their historical use to execute extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances during the 1984 Sikh Genocide." Trudeau also accused of meddling in India’s affairs Earlier in 2020, the Indian government had accused the Justin Trudeau administration of wading into India’s internal matters after it passed remarks on India’s farmers’ protest. The Canadian PM backed the farmers' protest in India while stating that Canada will always be there to defend the rights of peaceful protests. India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh then took strong objection to Trudeau’s comments and said, “India is not any other country that someone can say anything." Also read: Canada: Meta to withdraw news access on Facebook, Instagram for some users. Here's why “First of all, I would like to say about the prime minister of any country that comment should not be made about India's internal affairs. India does not require any outside interference. We will sort out issues by ourselves. It is an internal matter of India. No country in the world has the right to comment on India's internal affairs," Singh added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Justin Trudeau’s NSA accuses India of meddling in Canada’s internal affairs

It's already a wildfire season for the record books in Canada, with the blistering heat of summer and howling winds of fall still ahead.

Canada Ablaze: How wildfires are caused by climate change

<p>Several international students in Canada are staging indefinite protests amid a growing threat of their potential removal from the country. The demonstration, which began in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) this week, is expected to continue till the deportation process is stopped.</p>

<p>Their entry into the country was enabled by Indian agents using deceitful documentation.</p>

<p>These students had majorly arrived in the country between the years 2017 and 2019 to pursue higher education. They were informed that their admission offer letters were fake at the time they applied for permanent residency in Canada and their documents were investigated.</p>

<p>Now, at least 700 students are facing removal from the country and have been served with deportation letters by the Canadian Border Security Agency earlier this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These students started the protest at a makeshift location on Airport Road in Mississauga and set up a temporary shelter in the region as the protest was launched on Monday, as per a report by Hindustan Times.</p>

<p>The majority of the ones affected were represented by the agent Brijesh Mishra of the Jalandhar-based counselling firm EMSA Education and Migration Services Australia.</p>

<p>The former students said that they were being tormented for no fault of theirs.</p>

<p>This year in the month of March, they wrote an open letter under the banner of Victim Students saying, “We are desperate for justice; we are victims of fraud; we have no criminal level but facing a removal order.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agitation was triggered by an expulsion order received by Lovepreet Singh.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Singh, who hails from Mohali in Punjab, has been asked to exit the country by June 13.</p>

<p>Hindustan Times cited one of the impacted students Inder Singh as saying, “We will continue protesting till Lovepreet’s deportation on June 13 is cancelled and a solution is found to our cases.”</p>

<p>The location chosen for the protest is close to a CBSA office and the ex-students plan a large demonstration on Friday in front of that centre.</p>

<p>At least 30 more students are facing expulsion proceedings, though all cases have not yet escalated to the final order being passed. Another 130 or so cases are being probed.</p>

<p>Another student Karamjeet Kaur from Edmonton, hailing from Faridkot in Punjab, was facing expulsion on May 30 but has been granted a temporary stay that her safety would be compromised if she was sent back to India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The suspension will continue till a judicial review is undertaken in this concern.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country &amp; remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case.<br />
<br />
We’re also working closely with institutions to verify acceptance letters are valid at the time of application.</p>
— Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/SeanFraserMP/status/1662071419205738496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Recently, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser took to Twitter and said, “We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country &amp; remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case,” which further generated hope among these students that the government will positively revert to the problems being faced by them.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Several international students in Canada are staging indefinite protests amid a growing threat of their potential removal from the country. The demonstration, which began in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) this week, is expected to continue till the deportation process is stopped.

Several international students in Canada are staging indefinite protests amid a growing threat of their potential removal from the country. The demonstration, which began in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) this week, is expected to continue till the deportation process is stopped. Their entry into the country was enabled by Indian agents using deceitful documentation. These students had majorly arrived in the country between the years 2017 and 2019 to pursue higher education. They were informed that their admission offer letters were fake at the time they applied for permanent residency in Canada and their documents were investigated. Now, at least 700 students are facing removal from the country and have been served with deportation letters by the Canadian Border Security Agency earlier this year. These students started the protest at a makeshift location on Airport Road in Mississauga and set up a temporary shelter in the region as the protest was launched on Monday, as per a report by Hindustan Times. The majority of the ones affected were represented by the agent Brijesh Mishra of the Jalandhar-based counselling firm EMSA Education and Migration Services Australia. The former students said that they were being tormented for no fault of theirs. This year in the month of March, they wrote an open letter under the banner of Victim Students saying, “We are desperate for justice; we are victims of fraud; we have no criminal level but facing a removal order.” The agitation was triggered by an expulsion order received by Lovepreet Singh. Singh, who hails from Mohali in Punjab, has been asked to exit the country by June 13. Hindustan Times cited one of the impacted students Inder Singh as saying, “We will continue protesting till Lovepreet’s deportation on June 13 is cancelled and a solution is found to our cases.” The location chosen for the protest is close to a CBSA office and the ex-students plan a large demonstration on Friday in front of that centre. At least 30 more students are facing expulsion proceedings, though all cases have not yet escalated to the final order being passed. Another 130 or so cases are being probed. Another student Karamjeet Kaur from Edmonton, hailing from Faridkot in Punjab, was facing expulsion on May 30 but has been granted a temporary stay that her safety would be compromised if she was sent back to India. The suspension will continue till a judicial review is undertaken in this concern. We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country & remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case. We’re also working closely with institutions to verify acceptance letters are valid at the time of application. — Sean Fraser (@SeanFraserMP) May 26, 2023 × Recently, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser took to Twitter and said, “We recognize the immense contributions international students bring to our country & remain committed to supporting victims of fraud as we evaluate each case,” which further generated hope among these students that the government will positively revert to the problems being faced by them. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Duped students launch indefinite protests in Canada amid looming threat of deportation

In an interview conducted outside of the Shangri-La Dialogue, Canada's defence minister issued a warning against persistent cyberattacks. She also mentioned that Canada is a frequent target of these attacks, which poses a serious threat to the financial stability of the world's fourth-largest crude oil producer. According to Anita Anand, cyberattacks are becoming more common in North America.

The threat of cyberattacks to Canada's oil industry

<p>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.</p>

<p>"This is a scary time", he said.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Evacuation in Quebec</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>In the morning, the residents were asked to vacate their homes by 4 pm local time (2100 GMT).</p>

<p>Earlier, on Thursday, 500 residents from Chapais in the north of the province were evacuated.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>Wildfires started after major flareups in the west of the country in May, mainly in the Prairies provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-wildfires-continue-to-displace-thousands-599334">Canada: Massive wildfires continue to displace thousands</a></strong></p>

<p>In the past week, firefighting shifted to Nova Scotia on the Atlantic coast.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>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"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>On Thursday, 16 fires were burning in Nova Scotia. The flames had destroyed 200 homes. About 20,000 residents have been displaced.</p>

<p>"The numbers are really breath-taking," said Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston. "Our province is experiencing tremendous trauma."</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<h2><strong>Halifax threatened</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Soaring temperatures</strong></h2>

<p>Major Canadian cities like Montreal, Toronto, even capital Ottawa saw record-breaking temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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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

<p>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.</p>

<p>The minor percentage of Canadian users enrolled in testing will be notified if they attempt to share news content.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>It must be noted that the supposed disruption in sharing the news content would only occur for the Canadians enrolled for the testing.</p>

<h2><strong>Canada's Online News Act</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;WION Business News | Meta preparing large-scale layoffs: Reports</strong></p>

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<p>Canadian Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, who introduced the bill last year, called the tests "unacceptable".</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

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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

<p>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.</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>Initiative can deter smoking</strong></h2>

<p>The officials believe that such an initiative would virtually make it impossible for smokers to avoid health warnings.</p>

<p>The new rules would take effect on August 1, but the official said that it would be carried out in phases.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>A welcome move</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>“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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the former opposition leader claim?</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.”</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>“Whoever is trying to put pressure on me in whatever way they are trying to do it, they will not succeed,” said Kwan.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Trudeau&nbsp;government under pressure</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>However, the report did lead to the ouster of&nbsp;Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei who was&nbsp;accused of trying to target Chong.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;</em><br />
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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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"We have to ensure that there is security in Thailand and uphold our reputation that this country is safe to live in," she said.</p>

<p>An Alberta court approved the extradition of&nbsp;Dupre&nbsp;last December.</p>

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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

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<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Halifax declares state of emergency</strong></h2>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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 <a href="https://t.co/X5O5YpgvES">https://t.co/X5O5YpgvES</a> <a href="https://t.co/Ko8xC3tCJi">pic.twitter.com/Ko8xC3tCJi</a></p>
— Reuters (@Reuters) <a href="https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1663289117206093826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>And telecommunication firms Rogers and Bell Canada's Bell Aliant tweeted that some customers in communities evacuated due to wildfires may experience services disruptions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Halifax facing 'unprecedented' fire situation: Mayor</strong></h2>

<p>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."</p>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>What was the 2018 row?</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>That prompted Riyadh to recall its ambassador and bar the envoy from returning, and to institute a ban on new trade.</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Canada, Saudi Arabia to restore full diplomatic ties 5 years after spat</strong></p>

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<p>"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."</p>

<p>Canada will appoint Jean-Philippe Linteau as its new ambassador in Riyadh.</p>

<p>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.</p>

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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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to&nbsp;Sharron Prior?</strong></h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2><strong>Franklin Maywood Romine's criminal past</strong></h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em><strong>(With inputs from agencies)</strong></em></p>

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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

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid6SFqQTVtTyaZ" /><meta charset="utf-8" />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."</p>

<p>"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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<h2><strong>Tens of thousands of people displaced</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>During the Victoria Day weekend, authorities in Alberta closed some parks and campgrounds, and residents were urged to limit outdoor activities.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Wildfire smoke enters&nbsp;several US states</strong></h2>

<p>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.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Sunday, more than 2,800 firefighters from Canada and the US were battling about 91 active wildfires.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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&nbsp;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.&nbsp;</p>

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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

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