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.

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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.

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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.

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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)

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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;

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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;

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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.

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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;

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&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

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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;

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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;

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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

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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)

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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

Canadian province of Alberta declares a state of emergency as raging wildfires force evacuation of over 24,000 people.

Canadian province declares wildfire emergency

Alberta on Saturday declared a provincial state of emergency after tens of thousands of Albertans have been forced to evacuate their homes as "unprecedented" wildfires rage on in Alberta, Premier Danielle Smith, head of the ruling United Conservative Party (UCP) said at a press conference.

Alberta on Saturday declared a provincial state of emergency after tens of thousands of Albertans have been forced to evacuate their homes as "unprecedented" wildfires rage on in Alberta, Premier Danielle Smith, head of the ruling United Conservative Party (UCP) said at a press conference. By Saturday at 5 pm Mountain Time (7 pm ET), more than 24,000 Albertans had been evacuated from their homes, with 110 active wildfires across the province, and 36 out of control. "It has been an extremely challenging day for firefighters here," said Christie Tucker, an information unit manager for Alberta Wildfire. "We were battling very strong winds, hot weather and those winds produced extreme wildfire activity." She added that additional firefighters had arrived today from Quebec and Ontario. "Much of Alberta has been experiencing a hot, dry spring and with so much kindling, all it takes is a few sparks to ignite some truly frightening wildfires," said Smith at a press conference earlier in the day. "These conditions have resulted in the unprecedented situation our province is facing today." ALSO READ | Thousands forced to flee after wildfire and floods across western Canada Among the communities evacuated was Brazeau County, including all 7,000 people living in Drayton Valley, 140 km (87 miles) west of the province's capital Edmonton. The entire community of 3,600 people in Fox Lake was also among the evacuees, where the 1,458-hectare (3609-acre) Fox Lake fire consumed 20 homes and the police station. "I don't know that I ever recall seeing multiple communities evacuated all at once in fire season," said Smith. She said $1.12 billion (C$1.5 billion) is put aside as a contingency because they know a significant amount could need to be spent on emergency management, Whitecap Resources, an oil producer operating in northwestern and central Alberta, said it has been busy ensuring staff are safe through the evacuation process and assets are unaffected. "(We are) monitoring closely and praying for rain," Grant Fagerheim, Whitecap CEO, said on Saturday. WATCH | Canadian province of Alberta declares wildfire emergency × Pembina Pipeline Corp, which runs oil-gathering pipelines in the region, on Friday, said it had activated emergency response and incident management processes and is "evaluating any current or anticipated operational impacts". Pembina did not respond to a request for an update on Saturday. So far this year, there have been 43,000 hectares burned from wildfires, Smith said. "It is very unusual for us to see this much fire activity this early in the season," said Tucker earlier on Saturday. Voters in Alberta will go to the polls on May 29 to elect a new government. Smith said people should expect election day will go ahead as planned. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Canadian province of Alberta declares wildfire emergency

Jerry Martin, a 51-year-old Canadian, was detained in British Columbia for starting a mobile shop to sell cocaine, heroin, and other dangerous substances. In court, he has stated he intends to contest his arrest on the grounds that drug supplies cause harm. The arrest took place on Thursday, a day after Martin started his store.

Police in Vancouver claimed to have detained a guy for "drug trafficking in connection with an illicit drug dispensary". However, no official charges have yet been filed against him.&nbsp;

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-dramatic-visuals-as-truck-driver-rescued-in-kenya-after-sudden-floods-589502">Dramatic visuals as truck driver rescued in Kenya after sudden floods</a>

On Wednesday, he started a portable shop that was parked on Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, a place with a high prevalence of drug use and a lot of drug overdose prevention programmes.

Health Canada decriminalised the possession of small amounts of hard drugs in the province of British Columbia (BC) early this year as part of a three-year trial experiment. Martin, whose brother died from an overdose, said he had intended to establish his store.

The public health measure was proposed in response to an increase in the number of fentanyl-laced drug overdose deaths in western Canada. More than 2,720 individuals in British Columbia died from overdoses in 2022. It is seven people on average every day.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/onus-on-india-to-restart-peace-talks-pak-fm-bilawal-bhutto-589483">Onus on India to restart peace talks: Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari</a>

In an effort to stop more fatalities, Martin told local media sources that he intended to distribute batches of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and crack in little doses, up to 2.5 grammes. He said that fentanyl content had been checked during testing.

In a statement, Constable Tania Visintin said Vancouver police "support measures aimed at improving public safety for people who use drugs, including harm reduction services and decriminalisation."

Watch | Srinagar gears up to host G20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2

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Numerous people had reportedly queued up outside Martin's mobile store on Wednesday afternoon to purchase drugs, according to the CBC. Although Martin's name was not mentioned in the police news release announcing the arrest, it received extensive coverage in Canadian media. 
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Jerry Martin, a 51-year-old Canadian, was detained in British Columbia for starting a mobile shop to sell cocaine, heroin, and other dangerous substances. In court, he has stated he intends to contest his arrest on the grounds that drug supplies cause harm.

Jerry Martin, a 51-year-old Canadian, was detained in British Columbia for starting a mobile shop to sell cocaine, heroin, and other dangerous substances. In court, he has stated he intends to contest his arrest on the grounds that drug supplies cause harm. The arrest took place on Thursday, a day after Martin started his store. Police in Vancouver claimed to have detained a guy for "drug trafficking in connection with an illicit drug dispensary". However, no official charges have yet been filed against him. WATCH | Dramatic visuals as truck driver rescued in Kenya after sudden floods On Wednesday, he started a portable shop that was parked on Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, a place with a high prevalence of drug use and a lot of drug overdose prevention programmes. Health Canada decriminalised the possession of small amounts of hard drugs in the province of British Columbia (BC) early this year as part of a three-year trial experiment. Martin, whose brother died from an overdose, said he had intended to establish his store. The public health measure was proposed in response to an increase in the number of fentanyl-laced drug overdose deaths in western Canada. More than 2,720 individuals in British Columbia died from overdoses in 2022. It is seven people on average every day. Also Read | Onus on India to restart peace talks: Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari In an effort to stop more fatalities, Martin told local media sources that he intended to distribute batches of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and crack in little doses, up to 2.5 grammes. He said that fentanyl content had been checked during testing. In a statement, Constable Tania Visintin said Vancouver police "support measures aimed at improving public safety for people who use drugs, including harm reduction services and decriminalisation." Watch | Srinagar gears up to host G20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2 × Numerous people had reportedly queued up outside Martin's mobile store on Wednesday afternoon to purchase drugs, according to the CBC. Although Martin's name was not mentioned in the police news release announcing the arrest, it received extensive coverage in Canadian media. 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 man detained in British Columbia for opening shop selling hard drugs

More than 13,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in western Canada, as of Friday (May 5), after a week of record-hot weather, exceeding seasonal averages by as much as 10 degrees Celsius, which have since triggered wildfires. On the other hand, rapid snow melt has trigged flooding across interior British Columbia.&nbsp;

Wildfires in Alberta

The officials have said that around 13,000 residents were under evacuation orders, in the Canadian province of Alberta, the region worst affected by forest fires. On Friday, as per reports, the province witnessed nearly 80 active fires out of which many were out of control.&nbsp;

This comes as a western and central part of the country which is home to a large part of Canada’s agricultural land is witnessing “abnormally dry” and even “severe drought” in places, reported AFP citing data from the government.&nbsp;

In this context, among the worst-hit areas was the territory of the Little Red River Cree Nation, which comprises three communities in the north of the province, including Fox Lake, where fire has engulfed as many as 20 houses.&nbsp;

According to Christie Tucker, an information unit manager for Alberta Wildfire, there have been nearly 350 wildfires in Alberta this year, which have burned more than 25,000 hectares. “This is significantly more wildfire activity for this time of year than we have seen any time in the recent past,” said Tucker, at a press conference, as quoted by Reuters.&nbsp;

She added, “It's going to get hotter, it's going to get windier and we are expecting some extreme wildfire behaviour. Firefighters are at the ready today for what could be an extremely challenging day.” The official warned that fires were expected to intensify.

Floods and fire in British Columbia

While one part of Canada is dealing with dry conditions and wildfires, British Columbia, on the Pacific coast, is witnessing a terrible combination of both, several wildfires inland and rapid snowmelt that has raised the level of rivers in the southern part of the province. Media reports citing officials have said that some rivers have burst their banks.&nbsp;

“Multiple days of unusually warm temperatures have generated rapid snowmelt and high streamflows across much of the BC Interior, with severe flooding underway in some areas,” said the provincial authorities, in a statement, as quoted by the news agency AFP. It added, “Severe flooding is possible, and extreme flooding...is plausible, in areas that receive high rainfall.”

The authorities are also concerned about the heavy rains expected at the weekend which could worsen the situation. “The situation is expected to worsen as rainfall and thundershowers are forecast for Friday, May 5, and Saturday, May 6, which increases the likelihood of flooding,” said the Ministry of Emergency Management said in a statement, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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More than 13,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in western Canada, as of Friday (May 5), after a week of record-hot weather, exceeding seasonal averages by as much as 10 degrees Celsius, which have since triggered wildfires.

More than 13,000 people have been forced to flee their homes in western Canada, as of Friday (May 5), after a week of record-hot weather, exceeding seasonal averages by as much as 10 degrees Celsius, which have since triggered wildfires. On the other hand, rapid snow melt has trigged flooding across interior British Columbia. Wildfires in Alberta The officials have said that around 13,000 residents were under evacuation orders, in the Canadian province of Alberta, the region worst affected by forest fires. On Friday, as per reports, the province witnessed nearly 80 active fires out of which many were out of control. This comes as a western and central part of the country which is home to a large part of Canada’s agricultural land is witnessing “abnormally dry” and even “severe drought” in places, reported AFP citing data from the government. In this context, among the worst-hit areas was the territory of the Little Red River Cree Nation, which comprises three communities in the north of the province, including Fox Lake, where fire has engulfed as many as 20 houses. According to Christie Tucker, an information unit manager for Alberta Wildfire, there have been nearly 350 wildfires in Alberta this year, which have burned more than 25,000 hectares. “This is significantly more wildfire activity for this time of year than we have seen any time in the recent past,” said Tucker, at a press conference, as quoted by Reuters. She added, “It's going to get hotter, it's going to get windier and we are expecting some extreme wildfire behaviour. Firefighters are at the ready today for what could be an extremely challenging day.” The official warned that fires were expected to intensify. Floods and fire in British Columbia While one part of Canada is dealing with dry conditions and wildfires, British Columbia, on the Pacific coast, is witnessing a terrible combination of both, several wildfires inland and rapid snowmelt that has raised the level of rivers in the southern part of the province. Media reports citing officials have said that some rivers have burst their banks. “Multiple days of unusually warm temperatures have generated rapid snowmelt and high streamflows across much of the BC Interior, with severe flooding underway in some areas,” said the provincial authorities, in a statement, as quoted by the news agency AFP. It added, “Severe flooding is possible, and extreme flooding...is plausible, in areas that receive high rainfall.” The authorities are also concerned about the heavy rains expected at the weekend which could worsen the situation. “The situation is expected to worsen as rainfall and thundershowers are forecast for Friday, May 5, and Saturday, May 6, which increases the likelihood of flooding,” said the Ministry of Emergency Management said in a statement, as per Reuters. (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.

Thousands forced to flee after wildfire and floods across western Canada

Google and Meta's executives told Canadian lawmakers on Wednesday that the tech giants would take back access to news articles in Canada if the legislation that compels internet companies to pay money to the news publishers gets a green light.

The proposed legislation, which is part of a broader global trend to make tech firms pay for news, would force platforms like Facebook parent Meta Platforms Inc and Google parent Alphabet Inc to negotiate commercial deals and pay Canadian news publishers for their content.

Google's Vice President of News, Richard Gingras, said in testimony to a Senate committee that if this bill is passed, the company may be coerced to withdraw links to news articles found in Canadian search results. He further cited an "uncapped financial liability" if it had to pay publishers for linking to their sites.

Rachel Curran, head of public policy for Meta in Canada, said that if the bill is passed, Meta would also put an end to the availability of news content in the country.

The bill, introduced in April 2022 by Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, is the latest legislation aiming to make digital media platforms pay for linking news content.

"All we're asking the tech giants like Facebook and Google to do is negotiate fair deals with news outlets when they profit from their work," Heritage Ministry spokesperson Laura Scaffidi said.

<h2>'Google carrying out tests blocking news content for some users in Canada a terrible mistake': Trudeau&nbsp;</h2>

Google, earlier this year, tested blocking some Canadian users' access to news as a potential response to the legislation.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called this move a 'terrible mistake'. He said the blocking of news in Canada was an issue "bothering" him.

"It really surprises me that Google has decided that they'd rather prevent Canadians from accessing news than actually paying journalists for the work they do," he said.

"I think that's a terrible mistake and I know Canadians expect journalists to be well paid for the work they do.”

<h2>Australia's ground-breaking law made Facebook and Google pay for news</h2>

Canada's proposal is similar to a trailblazing law passed by Australia in the year 2021 after which Google and Facebook had threatened to withdraw their services but eventually, struck a deal with Australian media companies after amendments to the legislation were offered. &nbsp; &nbsp;

As per a government report the law has largely worked.

The Treasury Department report said that since the News Media Bargaining Code took effect, the tech firms had inked more than 30 deals with media outlets compensating them for the content which generated clicks and advertising dollars.

"At least some of these agreements have enabled news businesses to, in particular, employ additional journalists and make other valuable investments to assist their operations," said the report.

"While views on the success or otherwise of the Code will invariably differ, we consider it is reasonable to conclude that the Code has been a success to date."

"The review shows the Code has been successful in balancing bargaining power between news media and digital platforms," said Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones.

"Digital platforms must continue to negotiate in good faith with news businesses to ensure they are fairly remunerated for the news content they create."

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

&nbsp;

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Google and Meta's executives told Canadian lawmakers on Wednesday that the tech giants would take back access to news articles in Canada if the legislation that compels internet companies to pay money to the news publishers gets a green light.

Google and Meta's executives told Canadian lawmakers on Wednesday that the tech giants would take back access to news articles in Canada if the legislation that compels internet companies to pay money to the news publishers gets a green light. The proposed legislation, which is part of a broader global trend to make tech firms pay for news, would force platforms like Facebook parent Meta Platforms Inc and Google parent Alphabet Inc to negotiate commercial deals and pay Canadian news publishers for their content. Google's Vice President of News, Richard Gingras, said in testimony to a Senate committee that if this bill is passed, the company may be coerced to withdraw links to news articles found in Canadian search results. He further cited an "uncapped financial liability" if it had to pay publishers for linking to their sites. Rachel Curran, head of public policy for Meta in Canada, said that if the bill is passed, Meta would also put an end to the availability of news content in the country. The bill, introduced in April 2022 by Heritage Minister Pablo Rodriguez, is the latest legislation aiming to make digital media platforms pay for linking news content. "All we're asking the tech giants like Facebook and Google to do is negotiate fair deals with news outlets when they profit from their work," Heritage Ministry spokesperson Laura Scaffidi said. 'Google carrying out tests blocking news content for some users in Canada a terrible mistake': Trudeau Google, earlier this year, tested blocking some Canadian users' access to news as a potential response to the legislation. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called this move a 'terrible mistake'. He said the blocking of news in Canada was an issue "bothering" him. "It really surprises me that Google has decided that they'd rather prevent Canadians from accessing news than actually paying journalists for the work they do," he said. "I think that's a terrible mistake and I know Canadians expect journalists to be well paid for the work they do.” Australia's ground-breaking law made Facebook and Google pay for news Canada's proposal is similar to a trailblazing law passed by Australia in the year 2021 after which Google and Facebook had threatened to withdraw their services but eventually, struck a deal with Australian media companies after amendments to the legislation were offered. As per a government report the law has largely worked. The Treasury Department report said that since the News Media Bargaining Code took effect, the tech firms had inked more than 30 deals with media outlets compensating them for the content which generated clicks and advertising dollars. "At least some of these agreements have enabled news businesses to, in particular, employ additional journalists and make other valuable investments to assist their operations," said the report. "While views on the success or otherwise of the Code will invariably differ, we consider it is reasonable to conclude that the Code has been a success to date." "The review shows the Code has been successful in balancing bargaining power between news media and digital platforms," said Assistant Treasurer Stephen Jones. "Digital platforms must continue to negotiate in good faith with news businesses to ensure they are fairly remunerated for the news content they create." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Google, Meta threaten to withdraw news access if Online News Act becomes law

Canada's largest strike by federal workers is nearing its third week. But there seems to be no end in sight. The strike has particularly impacted people who want to emigrate to Canada for work. Employers continue to be anxious that a slower immigration process may lead to a major labour crunch.

Canada strikes leave immigrants in limbo

A Canadian chef has been accused of selling lethal poison to suicidal youngsters. According to a report by the Times on Tuesday (April 25), the chef- Kenneth Law- has been sending the poison to vulnerable people around the world from a post office near Toronto for two years.

A Canadian chef has been accused of selling lethal poison to suicidal youngsters. According to a report by the Times on Tuesday (April 25), the chef- Kenneth Law- has been sending the poison to vulnerable people around the world from a post office near Toronto for two years. Law sold the substance, which has not been identified yet, on a website disguised to fool authorities about its true purpose. Canadian authorities are investigating Law and his website was taken offline, The Times report said. Up to seven deaths, including four from the United Kingdom (UK), were linked to the poison. Law claimed that he sent the product to hundreds of people in the UK. He said that Britons were some of his most frequent buyers. On being asked how many in the UK got the poison, Law said, “It will be literally in the hundreds. And they’ve all received it. We have had many, many customers in the UK who have purchased it.” “People in the UK have died, people in the US have died, people in Canada have died, and other parts of the world,” he added. The report said that Law is a former aerospace engineer and had spent six months in Coventry working on the Boeing 7E7 programme team for Dunlop Standard Aerospace. However, he was most recently employed as a chef in a hotel in Toronto. Citing sources, the Times reported on Tuesday that Law worked at the hotel after wanting a lifestyle change. But the hotel said that he was not an employee. Speaking to the publication, he said that he came up with the business after seeing his mother suffer greatly following a stroke. Law said that his father is religious and did not believe very much in euthanasia. “She was bedridden, couldn’t speak and they had to feed her through a tube to her stomach for over seven years. And that was very painful. Not only for her family but also very painful for me to witness," Law said. “This is why I created some avenue of escape, so that people if they are in such a circumstance, can undertake it either by themselves or by somebody else,” he added. The victims The Times report mentioned the names of some of the victims who took their lives after buying the poison. The oldest victim was 38 years oldest while the youngest was 17. In the UK, twenty-two-year-old Tom Parfett was one of the victims who bought the poison from Law's company. Tom's father David said that Law was the man that effectively "handed a loaded gun to my son." David said that Tom would still be alive if it wasn't for Law and the substance. David also pointed out that Law was knowingly supplying the substance for people to take their own lives and gained some kind of perverse pleasure from the knowledge that they were doing it. Michael Dunham, 38, Neha Raju, 23 and a 21-year-old student who was not identified- were all from the UK and died in the last 18 months after they bought poison from Law. The report also said that there were three deaths linked to Law in the US. One of the victims, Anthony Jones, 17, consumed the substance and ran to his mother shouting he wanted to live. However, he died shortly afterwards. 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 chef sold poison to suicidal youngsters around the world: Report

In a now-viral video, male lawmakers in Canada were seen wearing pink high heels inside the country’s parliament to raise awareness about violence against women, on Friday (April 20). The politicians were participating in the “Hope in High Heels on the Hill” campaign sponsored by Halton Women’s Place based in Halton, Ontario.

Canada: Male politicians walk in pink heels to raise awareness for violence against women

In a now-viral video, male lawmakers in Canada were seen wearing pink high heels inside the country’s parliament to raise awareness about violence against women, on Friday (April 20). The politicians were participating in the “Hope in High Heels on the Hill” campaign sponsored by Halton Women’s Place based in Halton, Ontario.&nbsp;

“Violence against women is still prevalent in our society. Hope in Heels is an event that spreads awareness on violence against women while encouraging men and boys to be part of the solution. We wore their signature pink heels in support to this important cause,” Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra wrote on Twitter along with the video of lawmakers walking around the parliament in pink colour heels.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Violence against women is still prevalent in our society. Hope in Heels is an event that spreads awareness on violence against women while encouraging men and boys to be part of the solution. We wore their signature pink heels in support to this important cause. <a href="https://twitter.com/HaltonWomensPl?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HaltonWomensPl</a> <a href="https://t.co/5qngxQ6Myu">pic.twitter.com/5qngxQ6Myu</a>
— Omar Alghabra (@OmarAlghabra) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAlghabra/status/1649112084330807298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In a subsequent tweet, he wrote, “Now that I have your attention, violence against women comes in all forms, not just physical. Men, starting with me, need to be aware of the consequences of our actions and words and do better to create space for women around us.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Canadian Minister of Families, Children and Social Development also took to the microblogging platform and said how they welcomed the Halton Women’s Place for the fourth annual “Hope in High Heels on the Hill” and “continue the conversation on systemic violence against women. Educating men and boys is part of the solution, and it is all of our responsibilities to end gender based violence.”&nbsp;

“We were thrilled to see so many individuals across all political parties participate and walk in the heels to show their support in ending gender-based violence,” said the Halton Women’s Place.&nbsp;

Twitter reacts

The event garnered mostly criticism from Twitter users as many responded to the video posted by Alghabra calling it “ridiculous” or “insulting,” while others questioned how is this helping and called it “offensive.”

“I’m sorry am I missing something - how does men walking in pink heels around a table help women and men of domestic abuse and violence,” wrote one Twitter user.&nbsp;

“As the survivor of a violent attack this is just so offensive,” said another user.&nbsp;

“This is incredibly insulting to women. Instead of combatting abuse and violence against women with leadership and policies your government wastes time virtue signaling. Do your job instead please,” wrote a Twitter user.&nbsp;

Alghabra responds to criticism&nbsp;

In response to the backlash and criticism faced for the video posted, the&nbsp;Canadian transport minister, on Saturday wrote, "A credible organization that combats violence against women has been coming for years to Parliament asking male MPs to help them raise awareness about their work. Yet, a group of insecure men gets triggered when they see men wearing high heels speaks to how fragile their ego is."&nbsp;

He added, "Ironic that those who complain about how easily offended society is are easily offended by a simple gesture."&nbsp;

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In a now-viral video, male lawmakers in Canada were seen wearing pink high heels inside the country’s parliament to raise awareness about violence against women, on Friday (April 20).

In a now-viral video, male lawmakers in Canada were seen wearing pink high heels inside the country’s parliament to raise awareness about violence against women, on Friday (April 20). The politicians were participating in the “Hope in High Heels on the Hill” campaign sponsored by Halton Women’s Place based in Halton, Ontario. “Violence against women is still prevalent in our society. Hope in Heels is an event that spreads awareness on violence against women while encouraging men and boys to be part of the solution. We wore their signature pink heels in support to this important cause,” Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra wrote on Twitter along with the video of lawmakers walking around the parliament in pink colour heels. Violence against women is still prevalent in our society. Hope in Heels is an event that spreads awareness on violence against women while encouraging men and boys to be part of the solution. We wore their signature pink heels in support to this important cause. @HaltonWomensPl pic.twitter.com/5qngxQ6Myu — Omar Alghabra (@OmarAlghabra) April 20, 2023 × In a subsequent tweet, he wrote, “Now that I have your attention, violence against women comes in all forms, not just physical. Men, starting with me, need to be aware of the consequences of our actions and words and do better to create space for women around us.” Meanwhile, the Canadian Minister of Families, Children and Social Development also took to the microblogging platform and said how they welcomed the Halton Women’s Place for the fourth annual “Hope in High Heels on the Hill” and “continue the conversation on systemic violence against women. Educating men and boys is part of the solution, and it is all of our responsibilities to end gender based violence.” “We were thrilled to see so many individuals across all political parties participate and walk in the heels to show their support in ending gender-based violence,” said the Halton Women’s Place. Twitter reacts The event garnered mostly criticism from Twitter users as many responded to the video posted by Alghabra calling it “ridiculous” or “insulting,” while others questioned how is this helping and called it “offensive.” “I’m sorry am I missing something - how does men walking in pink heels around a table help women and men of domestic abuse and violence,” wrote one Twitter user. “As the survivor of a violent attack this is just so offensive,” said another user. “This is incredibly insulting to women. Instead of combatting abuse and violence against women with leadership and policies your government wastes time virtue signaling. Do your job instead please,” wrote a Twitter user. Alghabra responds to criticism In response to the backlash and criticism faced for the video posted, the Canadian transport minister, on Saturday wrote, "A credible organization that combats violence against women has been coming for years to Parliament asking male MPs to help them raise awareness about their work. Yet, a group of insecure men gets triggered when they see men wearing high heels speaks to how fragile their ego is." He added, "Ironic that those who complain about how easily offended society is are easily offended by a simple gesture." 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 | Canada: Male politicians walk in pink heels to raise awareness on violence against women

Huge quantities of gold and other valuables&nbsp;went missing from Pearson International Airport in Canada's Toronto city on Friday, in what has emerged as one of the biggest robberies of North America in recent times.&nbsp;

Canadian officials say more than $14.8m&nbsp;of gold and other valuables were stolen on Monday, 17 April.

The "high-value" aircraft container arrived at the airport in the evening and it was reportedly transported to a cargo holding facility.

According to the police, the heist took place at this exact cargo holding facility.

The theft could mark one of the bigger heists in Canadian history, BBC reported. Other heists of similar scale&nbsp;include the 2011 and 2012 Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist, when 3,000 tonnes of syrup valued at $18.7m were stolen from a storage facility in Quebec.

Peel Regional Police inspector Stephen Duivesteyn said their team is investigating "all avenues" and described the incident as "isolated" and "rare".

He said the aircraft container was about 5 square feet (.46 square metres) in size.

The Toronto Sun reported earlier on Thursday that police thought organised crime groups were involved.&nbsp;

The Canadian police are now investigating the gold heist that have stunned many by its sheer scale.

The investigators are suspecting it to be an act of organised crime,&nbsp;initial reports in the Canadian media said.

Police have called the&nbsp;theft "very rare" and said they consider it to be an isolated incident which poses no threat to public safety.

Police do not yet know where the gold was headed or if it is still in Canada.

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Huge quantities of gold and other valuables went missing from Pearson International Airport in Canada's Toronto city on Friday, in what has emerged as one of the biggest robberies of North America in recent times.

Huge quantities of gold and other valuables went missing from Pearson International Airport in Canada's Toronto city on Friday, in what has emerged as one of the biggest robberies of North America in recent times. Canadian officials say more than $14.8m of gold and other valuables were stolen on Monday, 17 April. The "high-value" aircraft container arrived at the airport in the evening and it was reportedly transported to a cargo holding facility. According to the police, the heist took place at this exact cargo holding facility. The theft could mark one of the bigger heists in Canadian history, BBC reported. Other heists of similar scale include the 2011 and 2012 Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist, when 3,000 tonnes of syrup valued at $18.7m were stolen from a storage facility in Quebec. Peel Regional Police inspector Stephen Duivesteyn said their team is investigating "all avenues" and described the incident as "isolated" and "rare". He said the aircraft container was about 5 square feet (.46 square metres) in size. The Toronto Sun reported earlier on Thursday that police thought organised crime groups were involved. The Canadian police are now investigating the gold heist that have stunned many by its sheer scale. The investigators are suspecting it to be an act of organised crime, initial reports in the Canadian media said. Police have called the theft "very rare" and said they consider it to be an isolated incident which poses no threat to public safety. Police do not yet know where the gold was headed or if it is still in Canada. 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.

Gold heist at Canada's Toronto airport could be country's biggest robbery in years

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