Nearly a century of marijuana prohibition came to an end Wednesday as Canada became the first major Western nation to legalise and regulate its sale and recreational use.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/make-marijuana-legal-at-major-beach-resorts-mexico-tourism-minister-30805">Also Read:&nbsp;&nbsp;Make marijuana legal, at major beach resorts, says Mexico Tourism Minister</a>

The change was praised by pot enthusiasts and investors in a budding industry that has seen pot stocks soar on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges, but sharply questioned by some health professionals and opposition politicians.

"We're not legalizing cannabis because we think it's good for our health. We're doing it because we know it's not good for our children," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on the eve of the reform.

"We know we need to do a better job to protect our children and to eliminate or massively reduce the profits that go to organized crime."

The Cannabis Act, which fulfills a promise Trudeau made in the 2015 election campaign, makes Canada only the second nation after Uruguay to legalise the drug.

Its implementation will be scrutinised and dissected by Canadians ahead of the next election in 2019, as well as other nations that the prime minister has said may follow suit if the measure proves a success.

Trudeau himself admitted in 2013 to having smoked pot five or six times in his life, including at a dinner party with friends after being elected to parliament.

He has also said that his late brother Michel was facing marijuana possession charges for a "tiny amount" of pot before his death in an avalanche in 1998, and that this influenced his decision to propose legalizing cannabis.

But Trudeau's office told AFP he "does not plan on purchasing or consuming cannabis once it is legalised."

In total, Statistics Canada says 5.4 million Canadians will buy cannabis from legal dispensaries in 2018 -- about 15 per cent of the population. Around 4.9 million already smoke.

Stores in St. John's in the Atlantic island province of Newfoundland were due to open their doors to pot enthusiasts as of 12:01 am local time (0231 GMT) on Wednesday.

"I'm going to have a lot more variety than the black market dealers, so you have a lot more choice at our store. The prices are very comparable," Thomas Clarke, owner of THC Distribution store, told public broadcaster CBC just prior to the big event.

Under the new regulations, Canadians at least 18 or 19 years old (soon to be 21 in Quebec) will be allowed to buy up to 30 grams of cannabis, and grow up to four plants at home.

A patchwork of private and public cannabis retail stores and online sales have been set up across the 13 provinces and territories, ramping up to 300 storefronts by year's end, the government predicts.

Sales of derivatives like edibles will be legalised next year.

To meet demand, hundreds of growers have been licensed, some taking over horticulture and floriculture greenhouses.

This new industry has attracted billions in funding, as well as interest from alcohol and soft drink makers such as Constellation Brands and Coca-Cola, respectively, which have expressed an interest in developing cannabis-infused drinks.

Cannabis sales are forecast to boost economic growth by up to Can$1.1 billion and provide a Can$400 million tax revenue windfall for the government, according to Statistics Canada.

Public health officials contend that smoking cannabis is as harmful as tobacco, but welcome what they call the opportunity that legalisation affords for open dialogue.&nbsp;

Some doctors, however, remain wary. Diane Kelsall, editor in chief of the Canadian Medical Association Journal, called legalisation "a national, uncontrolled experiment in which the profits of cannabis producers and tax revenues are squarely pitched against the health of Canadians."

Police, meanwhile, are scrambling to prepare for a predicted uptick in drug-impaired driving.

It's unclear as yet if the new framework will succeed in undercutting the black market, as prices for illicit pot have plunged in the last year to an average of Can$6.79 per gram, and most sellers had planned to charge more.

Bill Blair, a former police chief in Toronto who is Trudeau's pointman for pot legalization, remains optimistic.

"For almost a century, criminal enterprises had complete control of this market, 100 per cent of its production and distribution and they profited in the billions of dollars each year. I suspect they're not going to go gently into the night," he told AFP.

"But the fact that some individuals want to cling to a prohibition model that has led to the highest rates of cannabis use of any country in the world is a little shocking to me," he said.

According to a recent Abacus Data poll published on Monday, 70 per cent of Canadians accept or support legalisation. 
&nbsp;

Nearly a century of marijuana prohibition came to an end Wednesday as Canada became the first major Western nation to legalise and regulate its sale and recreational use.

Nearly a century of marijuana prohibition came to an end Wednesday as Canada became the first major Western nation to legalise and regulate its sale and recreational use. Also Read: Make marijuana legal, at major beach resorts, says Mexico Tourism Minister The change was praised by pot enthusiasts and investors in a budding industry that has seen pot stocks soar on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges, but sharply questioned by some health professionals and opposition politicians. "We're not legalizing cannabis because we think it's good for our health. We're doing it because we know it's not good for our children," Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on the eve of the reform. "We know we need to do a better job to protect our children and to eliminate or massively reduce the profits that go to organized crime." The Cannabis Act, which fulfills a promise Trudeau made in the 2015 election campaign, makes Canada only the second nation after Uruguay to legalise the drug. Its implementation will be scrutinised and dissected by Canadians ahead of the next election in 2019, as well as other nations that the prime minister has said may follow suit if the measure proves a success. Trudeau himself admitted in 2013 to having smoked pot five or six times in his life, including at a dinner party with friends after being elected to parliament. He has also said that his late brother Michel was facing marijuana possession charges for a "tiny amount" of pot before his death in an avalanche in 1998, and that this influenced his decision to propose legalizing cannabis. But Trudeau's office told AFP he "does not plan on purchasing or consuming cannabis once it is legalised." In total, Statistics Canada says 5.4 million Canadians will buy cannabis from legal dispensaries in 2018 -- about 15 per cent of the population. Around 4.9 million already smoke. Stores in St. John's in the Atlantic island province of Newfoundland were due to open their doors to pot enthusiasts as of 12:01 am local time (0231 GMT) on Wednesday. "I'm going to have a lot more variety than the black market dealers, so you have a lot more choice at our store. The prices are very comparable," Thomas Clarke, owner of THC Distribution store, told public broadcaster CBC just prior to the big event. Under the new regulations, Canadians at least 18 or 19 years old (soon to be 21 in Quebec) will be allowed to buy up to 30 grams of cannabis, and grow up to four plants at home. A patchwork of private and public cannabis retail stores and online sales have been set up across the 13 provinces and territories, ramping up to 300 storefronts by year's end, the government predicts. Sales of derivatives like edibles will be legalised next year. To meet demand, hundreds of growers have been licensed, some taking over horticulture and floriculture greenhouses. This new industry has attracted billions in funding, as well as interest from alcohol and soft drink makers such as Constellation Brands and Coca-Cola, respectively, which have expressed an interest in developing cannabis-infused drinks. Cannabis sales are forecast to boost economic growth by up to Can$1.1 billion and provide a Can$400 million tax revenue windfall for the government, according to Statistics Canada. Public health officials contend that smoking cannabis is as harmful as tobacco, but welcome what they call the opportunity that legalisation affords for open dialogue. Some doctors, however, remain wary. Diane Kelsall, editor in chief of the Canadian Medical Association Journal, called legalisation "a national, uncontrolled experiment in which the profits of cannabis producers and tax revenues are squarely pitched against the health of Canadians." Police, meanwhile, are scrambling to prepare for a predicted uptick in drug-impaired driving. It's unclear as yet if the new framework will succeed in undercutting the black market, as prices for illicit pot have plunged in the last year to an average of Can$6.79 per gram, and most sellers had planned to charge more. Bill Blair, a former police chief in Toronto who is Trudeau's pointman for pot legalization, remains optimistic. "For almost a century, criminal enterprises had complete control of this market, 100 per cent of its production and distribution and they profited in the billions of dollars each year. I suspect they're not going to go gently into the night," he told AFP. "But the fact that some individuals want to cling to a prohibition model that has led to the highest rates of cannabis use of any country in the world is a little shocking to me," he said. According to a recent Abacus Data poll published on Monday, 70 per cent of Canadians accept or support legalisation.

Now, Canada legalises marijuana for recreational use

Your Story: Canada legalises recreational marijuana

Canada on Friday will become the second country in the world to legalize cannabis -- with the provinces left to work out the details of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's landmark measure.

From October 17, Canadians will be allowed to grow, possess and consume marijuana for recreational purposes -- five years after Uruguay passed pioneering legislation on the issue.

Derivative products such as edibles, cosmetics and e-cigarette products containing pot will not be allowed until 2019.

But nonetheless, legalization is expected to boost the Canadian economy, generating $816 million to $1.1 billion in the fourth quarter -- without taking into account the black market, which is expected to account for a quarter of all joints smoked in Canada, according to Statistics Canada.

A $400 million tax revenue windfall is forecast as a result -- with the provinces, municipalities and federal government all getting a slice.

In total, Statistics Canada says 5.4 million Canadians will buy cannabis in legal dispensaries in 2018 -- about 15 percent of the population. 4.9 million already smoke.

And the world will be watching how Canada gets on.

"There is a lot of interest from our allies in what we're doing," Trudeau, who has admitted to smoking cannabis himself a handful of times, told AFP in May.

"They recognize that Canada is being daring... and recognize that the current regime (of prohibition) does not work, that it's not preventing young people from having easy access to cannabis."

Provinces decide&nbsp;

Preparations are underway ahead of the reform, promised by Trudeau's Liberal Party, with businesses and local authorities forced to review their rules and regulations.

That's because even though the cannabis ban, in force since 1923, was overturned by the federal government, how legalization plays out in practice has been left to Canada's 10 provinces and three territories to decide.

Several have already said they will not fully implement the law.&nbsp;

For example, even though federal law will permit each household to grow up to four cannabis plants, central Manitoba and Quebec in the east say they will ban it -- and go all the way to the Supreme Court over the matter.

Like with alcohol and tobacco, the question of legal age also falls to the provinces. Nineteen seems to be the standard, but it is 18 in Alberta -- while Quebec, whose new government will enter office the day after legalization, wants to raise the age to 21.

With regards to sales, some provinces such as Quebec will implement a public monopoly -- while others, including Ontario and Nova Scotia, have decided to trust the market to the private sector.

As for law enforcement, federal police will be ordered to abstain for 28 days before working, as will police in Toronto.&nbsp;

Officers in Montreal, however, are simply asked to not show up to work high.

Another issue for the provinces to mull over is open consumption, with Montreal deciding to impose the same rules as those for tobacco -- while people in other provinces will have to light up at home.

Canada on Friday will become the second country in the world to legalize cannabis -- with the provinces left to work out the details of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's landmark measure.

Canada on Friday will become the second country in the world to legalize cannabis -- with the provinces left to work out the details of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's landmark measure. From October 17, Canadians will be allowed to grow, possess and consume marijuana for recreational purposes -- five years after Uruguay passed pioneering legislation on the issue. Derivative products such as edibles, cosmetics and e-cigarette products containing pot will not be allowed until 2019. But nonetheless, legalization is expected to boost the Canadian economy, generating $816 million to $1.1 billion in the fourth quarter -- without taking into account the black market, which is expected to account for a quarter of all joints smoked in Canada, according to Statistics Canada. A $400 million tax revenue windfall is forecast as a result -- with the provinces, municipalities and federal government all getting a slice. In total, Statistics Canada says 5.4 million Canadians will buy cannabis in legal dispensaries in 2018 -- about 15 percent of the population. 4.9 million already smoke. And the world will be watching how Canada gets on. "There is a lot of interest from our allies in what we're doing," Trudeau, who has admitted to smoking cannabis himself a handful of times, told AFP in May. "They recognize that Canada is being daring... and recognize that the current regime (of prohibition) does not work, that it's not preventing young people from having easy access to cannabis." Provinces decide Preparations are underway ahead of the reform, promised by Trudeau's Liberal Party, with businesses and local authorities forced to review their rules and regulations. That's because even though the cannabis ban, in force since 1923, was overturned by the federal government, how legalization plays out in practice has been left to Canada's 10 provinces and three territories to decide. Several have already said they will not fully implement the law. For example, even though federal law will permit each household to grow up to four cannabis plants, central Manitoba and Quebec in the east say they will ban it -- and go all the way to the Supreme Court over the matter. Like with alcohol and tobacco, the question of legal age also falls to the provinces. Nineteen seems to be the standard, but it is 18 in Alberta -- while Quebec, whose new government will enter office the day after legalization, wants to raise the age to 21. With regards to sales, some provinces such as Quebec will implement a public monopoly -- while others, including Ontario and Nova Scotia, have decided to trust the market to the private sector. As for law enforcement, federal police will be ordered to abstain for 28 days before working, as will police in Toronto. Officers in Montreal, however, are simply asked to not show up to work high. Another issue for the provinces to mull over is open consumption, with Montreal deciding to impose the same rules as those for tobacco -- while people in other provinces will have to light up at home.

Canada makes final preparations before cannabis becomes legal

Nirav Modi's victims are not constrained to Indian banks only as there are currently cases that show he likewise duped people of crores in other countries.

Nirav, who is wanted in a multi-crore fraud at India’s Punjab National Bank, allegedly sold two fake diamond rings to a Canadian man Paul Alfonso for US$200,000 (Rs 1.4 crore) in Hong Kong.

Alfonso, who apparently had no idea about fraud charges on Nirav Modi, purchased the rings to propose to his better half. In any case, their festival was stopped after they discovered that the diamonds were fake, as per a report in the South China Morning Post.

“This affected the relationship between my ex-fiancée and her family. They think that I went out and bought these fake rings and proposed to her,” the South China Morning Post quoted Alfonso.

As per the report, Alfonso met Modi a few times in 2012 and developed a respect for him. “In a way, I admired him and I looked up to him.”

Alfonso says he has suffered from depression since he realised the two diamonds were fake. “After that, I just could not function,” he says. “I realised that even if I go after this guy, there are so many creditors before me who are trying to get compensated.”

This also took a toll on his business, as most of his energy has been focused on seeking justice. “I have dedicated the last few weeks of my life, every single day, trying to figure out how to find this guy and be compensated.”

Nirav Modi's victims are not constrained to Indian banks only as there are currently cases that show he likewise duped people of crores in other countries. Nirav, who is wanted in a multi-crore fraud at India’s Punjab National Bank, allegedly sold two fake diamond rings to a Canadian man Paul Alfonso for US$200,000 (Rs 1.

Nirav Modi's victims are not constrained to Indian banks only as there are currently cases that show he likewise duped people of crores in other countries. Nirav, who is wanted in a multi-crore fraud at India’s Punjab National Bank, allegedly sold two fake diamond rings to a Canadian man Paul Alfonso for US$200,000 (Rs 1.4 crore) in Hong Kong. Alfonso, who apparently had no idea about fraud charges on Nirav Modi, purchased the rings to propose to his better half. In any case, their festival was stopped after they discovered that the diamonds were fake, as per a report in the South China Morning Post. “This affected the relationship between my ex-fiancée and her family. They think that I went out and bought these fake rings and proposed to her,” the South China Morning Post quoted Alfonso. As per the report, Alfonso met Modi a few times in 2012 and developed a respect for him. “In a way, I admired him and I looked up to him.” Alfonso says he has suffered from depression since he realised the two diamonds were fake. “After that, I just could not function,” he says. “I realised that even if I go after this guy, there are so many creditors before me who are trying to get compensated.” This also took a toll on his business, as most of his energy has been focused on seeking justice. “I have dedicated the last few weeks of my life, every single day, trying to figure out how to find this guy and be compensated.”

Nirav Modi sold fake diamond rings to Canada national, his engagement now broken: Report

US President Donald Trump on Monday praised Canada's entry into a reworked trade deal with the United States and Mexico after the two countries forged a last-gasp agreement on Sunday to salvage the NAFTA.

In a post on Twitter, Trump called the US agreement with its neighbour to the north "wonderful" and "a great deal for all three countries," adding that the new trade alliance would be renamed the United States Mexico Canada Agreement or USMCA.

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Late last night, our deadline, we reached a wonderful new Trade Deal with Canada, to be added into the deal already reached with Mexico. The new name will be The United States Mexico Canada Agreement, or USMCA. It is a great deal for all three countries, solves the many......
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1046708836407685122?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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.....deficiencies and mistakes in NAFTA, greatly opens markets to our Farmers and Manufacturers, reduce Trade Barriers to the U.S. and will bring all three Great Nations closer together in competition with the rest of the world. The USMCA is a historic transaction!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1046711423227842560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The United States and Canada reached a deal on Sunday to salvage NAFTA as a trilateral pact with Mexico, beating a midnight deadline with agreements to substantially boost American access to Canada's dairy market and protect Canada from possible US auto tariffs, sources with direct knowledge of the talks said.

US President Donald Trump on Monday praised Canada's entry into a reworked trade deal with the United States and Mexico after the two countries forged a last-gasp agreement on Sunday to salvage the NAFTA.

US President Donald Trump on Monday praised Canada's entry into a reworked trade deal with the United States and Mexico after the two countries forged a last-gasp agreement on Sunday to salvage the NAFTA. In a post on Twitter, Trump called the US agreement with its neighbour to the north "wonderful" and "a great deal for all three countries," adding that the new trade alliance would be renamed the United States Mexico Canada Agreement or USMCA. Late last night, our deadline, we reached a wonderful new Trade Deal with Canada, to be added into the deal already reached with Mexico. The new name will be The United States Mexico Canada Agreement, or USMCA. It is a great deal for all three countries, solves the many...... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 1, 2018 × .....deficiencies and mistakes in NAFTA, greatly opens markets to our Farmers and Manufacturers, reduce Trade Barriers to the U.S. and will bring all three Great Nations closer together in competition with the rest of the world. The USMCA is a historic transaction! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 1, 2018 × The United States and Canada reached a deal on Sunday to salvage NAFTA as a trilateral pact with Mexico, beating a midnight deadline with agreements to substantially boost American access to Canada's dairy market and protect Canada from possible US auto tariffs, sources with direct knowledge of the talks said.

Trump welcomes Canada's entry into trade pact with US, Mexico

The United States and Canada have told Mexico they could reach a compromise within 48 hours on keeping the updated North American Free Trade Agreement a three-country deal, the Mexican economy minister said Friday.

Speaking as he presented the Mexican Senate with the current US-Mexican agreement to update NAFTA -- which does not include Canada, the third member of the original deal -- Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo said Washington and Ottawa were making a "very serious," last-ditch attempt to bridge their differences.

"For the first time, we're seeing a real effort by both sides," he said.

"In the next 48 hours, we will know if we are going with a trilateral agreement."

Guajardo, Mexico's top negotiator for "NAFTA 2.0," insisted that even if no 11th-hour US-Canadian deal is reached, a three-way deal would still be possible at some point in the future.

But that would mean "going ahead with a bilateral agreement and then later defining what legal actions we would have to take to maintain the possibility of a three-way deal," he said.

A Canadian government source told AFP that Canada's top negotiator, Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland, "is in constant communication with the Americans, both formally and informally."

The United States and Mexico want to push their deal through their respective legislatures before Mexican President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador takes office on December 1.

In the United States, there is a three-month timeframe for doing so -- meaning Congress must have the text of the deal by Sunday.

Tempers flare&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump has been pushing for a complete overhaul of the 25-year-old trade deal, which he says has been a "rip-off" for the United States.

In August -- more than a year into the negotiations -- the United States and Mexico announced they had reached a two-way deal, after breaking away for bilateral talks on their outstanding issues.

But the ensuing talks to incorporate Canada have stumbled.

According to the negotiators, Canada's insistence on a trade dispute provision and its protected dairy sector are the last major sticking points.

Ottawa is also seeking assurances that the United States will not, after signing a new NAFTA deal, turn around and hit Canada with punitive auto tariffs.

Tempers flared this week on both sides as the end-of-month deadline approached.

"We're not getting along with their negotiators," Trump said Wednesday of Canada.

"Canadians are tough negotiators, as we should be," Trudeau fired back.

"We won't sign a bad deal for Canada."

The politics are high-stakes on both sides: Trump needs to look strong heading into the US mid-term elections in November, while Trudeau does not want to be seen as caving with a general election looming next year.

'AMLO' upbeat&nbsp;

The man whose impending inauguration is responsible for the rush -- Mexican President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador -- downplayed the importance of the end-of-month deadline.

"There is no fatal date, there is still time to reach a deal," he told a press conference earlier Friday.

The leftist president-elect, a free-trade skeptic, had criticized NAFTA in the past. But his transition team played an active part in the recent negotiations, and he has firmly backed the US-Mexican deal -- which he wants Canada to join.

Lopez Obrador, widely known as "AMLO," said he had spoken by phone Thursday with Trudeau.

"He said the negotiations were very difficult, that it might not be possible (to reach a three-way deal), but that they (Canada) had made a proposal," he said.

He said there was a counter-proposal Friday from the United States.

"That means the negotiations aren't over yet," he said.

He reiterated his insistence that Mexico prefers to keep NAFTA a three-country deal.

But he said he considered the substance of the US-Mexican deal to be final, and that Mexico did not want to renegotiate points that had already been agreed with Washington.

"We don't want to put our economic future and our country's financial stability at risk," he said.

The United States and Canada have told Mexico they could reach a compromise within 48 hours on keeping the updated North American Free Trade Agreement a three-country deal, the Mexican economy minister said Friday.

The United States and Canada have told Mexico they could reach a compromise within 48 hours on keeping the updated North American Free Trade Agreement a three-country deal, the Mexican economy minister said Friday. Speaking as he presented the Mexican Senate with the current US-Mexican agreement to update NAFTA -- which does not include Canada, the third member of the original deal -- Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo said Washington and Ottawa were making a "very serious," last-ditch attempt to bridge their differences. "For the first time, we're seeing a real effort by both sides," he said. "In the next 48 hours, we will know if we are going with a trilateral agreement." Guajardo, Mexico's top negotiator for "NAFTA 2.0," insisted that even if no 11th-hour US-Canadian deal is reached, a three-way deal would still be possible at some point in the future. But that would mean "going ahead with a bilateral agreement and then later defining what legal actions we would have to take to maintain the possibility of a three-way deal," he said. A Canadian government source told AFP that Canada's top negotiator, Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland, "is in constant communication with the Americans, both formally and informally." The United States and Mexico want to push their deal through their respective legislatures before Mexican President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador takes office on December 1. In the United States, there is a three-month timeframe for doing so -- meaning Congress must have the text of the deal by Sunday. Tempers flare US President Donald Trump has been pushing for a complete overhaul of the 25-year-old trade deal, which he says has been a "rip-off" for the United States. In August -- more than a year into the negotiations -- the United States and Mexico announced they had reached a two-way deal, after breaking away for bilateral talks on their outstanding issues. But the ensuing talks to incorporate Canada have stumbled. According to the negotiators, Canada's insistence on a trade dispute provision and its protected dairy sector are the last major sticking points. Ottawa is also seeking assurances that the United States will not, after signing a new NAFTA deal, turn around and hit Canada with punitive auto tariffs. Tempers flared this week on both sides as the end-of-month deadline approached. "We're not getting along with their negotiators," Trump said Wednesday of Canada. "Canadians are tough negotiators, as we should be," Trudeau fired back. "We won't sign a bad deal for Canada." The politics are high-stakes on both sides: Trump needs to look strong heading into the US mid-term elections in November, while Trudeau does not want to be seen as caving with a general election looming next year. 'AMLO' upbeat The man whose impending inauguration is responsible for the rush -- Mexican President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador -- downplayed the importance of the end-of-month deadline. "There is no fatal date, there is still time to reach a deal," he told a press conference earlier Friday. The leftist president-elect, a free-trade skeptic, had criticized NAFTA in the past. But his transition team played an active part in the recent negotiations, and he has firmly backed the US-Mexican deal -- which he wants Canada to join. Lopez Obrador, widely known as "AMLO," said he had spoken by phone Thursday with Trudeau. "He said the negotiations were very difficult, that it might not be possible (to reach a three-way deal), but that they (Canada) had made a proposal," he said. He said there was a counter-proposal Friday from the United States. "That means the negotiations aren't over yet," he said. He reiterated his insistence that Mexico prefers to keep NAFTA a three-country deal. But he said he considered the substance of the US-Mexican deal to be final, and that Mexico did not want to renegotiate points that had already been agreed with Washington. "We don't want to put our economic future and our country's financial stability at risk," he said.

US, Canada could reach new NAFTA deal in 48 hours: Mexico

Mexican President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Friday that his country will seek a bilateral trade deal with Canada if negotiations fall through for a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

The United States and Canada are holding a flurry of talks aimed at keeping NAFTA a three-country deal after the US and Mexico reached their own deal that President Donald Trump says may or may not end up including Ottawa.

But the latest round of negotiations ended Thursday with no signs of a compromise to bring Canada into the deal.

Mexico has repeatedly said it wants the updated version of the 25-year-old NAFTA to remain a three-country deal -- a stance reiterated by Lopez Obrador, who takes office on December 1.

But if all else fails, "we'd have to keep the deal (with the United States) and try to reach a similar one with Canada," he said in the northern state of Sonora.

"Obviously we can't cut ties with either."

The anti-establishment leftist, who won Mexico's July elections in a landslide, said he has had good relations so far with the Trump administration.

"I hope with all my heart it stays that way," he said.

"We're neighbours. We can't be distant neighbours. We have to achieve a relationship of respect and cooperation."

US-Mexican relations have been strained over Trump's anti-Mexican insults, his insistence on overhauling the "terrible" NAFTA deal, and his vows to make Mexico pay for a wall on the border.

But despite their ideological differences, Lopez Obrador and Trump have hit it off.

The leftist leader is known as "AMLO" has notably wooed the Republican billionaire with talk of stemming the flow of migration to the United States by promoting economic development in Mexico.

Lopez Obrador, 64, posted a video on Twitter from the border fence between Sonora and the US state of Arizona in which he vowed to keep would-be migrants on the Mexican side by launching an economic development corridor in the border region from January 1.

His plan, which would notably double the minimum wage and slash taxes along the border, would act as a "curtain," rather than a wall, to keep would-be migrants in Mexico, he said.

Mexican President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Friday that his country will seek a bilateral trade deal with Canada if negotiations fall through for a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

Mexican President-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said Friday that his country will seek a bilateral trade deal with Canada if negotiations fall through for a new North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). The United States and Canada are holding a flurry of talks aimed at keeping NAFTA a three-country deal after the US and Mexico reached their own deal that President Donald Trump says may or may not end up including Ottawa. But the latest round of negotiations ended Thursday with no signs of a compromise to bring Canada into the deal. Mexico has repeatedly said it wants the updated version of the 25-year-old NAFTA to remain a three-country deal -- a stance reiterated by Lopez Obrador, who takes office on December 1. But if all else fails, "we'd have to keep the deal (with the United States) and try to reach a similar one with Canada," he said in the northern state of Sonora. "Obviously we can't cut ties with either." The anti-establishment leftist, who won Mexico's July elections in a landslide, said he has had good relations so far with the Trump administration. "I hope with all my heart it stays that way," he said. "We're neighbours. We can't be distant neighbours. We have to achieve a relationship of respect and cooperation." US-Mexican relations have been strained over Trump's anti-Mexican insults, his insistence on overhauling the "terrible" NAFTA deal, and his vows to make Mexico pay for a wall on the border. But despite their ideological differences, Lopez Obrador and Trump have hit it off. The leftist leader is known as "AMLO" has notably wooed the Republican billionaire with talk of stemming the flow of migration to the United States by promoting economic development in Mexico. Lopez Obrador, 64, posted a video on Twitter from the border fence between Sonora and the US state of Arizona in which he vowed to keep would-be migrants on the Mexican side by launching an economic development corridor in the border region from January 1. His plan, which would notably double the minimum wage and slash taxes along the border, would act as a "curtain," rather than a wall, to keep would-be migrants in Mexico, he said.

Mexico's 'AMLO' wants two-way deal with Canada if NAFTA fails

FIFA members have voted and given their verdict that US, Mexico and Canada will host the 2026 World Cup.

The North American bid received 134 of the 203 votes, while Morocco polled 65 in the ballot at a FIFA Congress held in Moscow on the eve of the 2018 World Cup.

The bid was between North American countries - the US, Mexico and Canada -&nbsp;and Morocco.

Although, Morocco had African support to bring football's showpiece event back to the continent but they lost the bid.

On the eve of the 2018 World Cup, delegates from 207 nations gathered in Moscow and delivered a clear result.

The US will be hosting the FIFA World Cup after 1994, and Mexico hosted the event in 1970 and 1986. For Canda, this is the first opportunity to host the football&nbsp;carnival.

North American bid had an upper hand as Morocco's bid exists largely on paper -&nbsp;many stadiums will need to be built and critics question how it will cope with a tournament that will be expanded to 48 teams in 2026.

FIFA inspectors had classified the north African nation's stadiums, accommodation and transport as "high risk", awarding it just 2.7 out of five, with red flags raised over several critical aspects of the bid but still they won.

A FIFA taskforce warned last month "the amount of new infrastructure required for the Morocco 2026 bid to become reality cannot be overstated".

The report left the US-Canada-Mexico bid as the clear front-runner after giving it a rating of four out of five.

FIFA members have voted and given their verdict that US, Mexico and Canada will host the 2026 World Cup

FIFA members have voted and given their verdict that US, Mexico and Canada will host the 2026 World Cup. The North American bid received 134 of the 203 votes, while Morocco polled 65 in the ballot at a FIFA Congress held in Moscow on the eve of the 2018 World Cup. The bid was between North American countries - the US, Mexico and Canada - and Morocco. Although, Morocco had African support to bring football's showpiece event back to the continent but they lost the bid. On the eve of the 2018 World Cup, delegates from 207 nations gathered in Moscow and delivered a clear result. The US will be hosting the FIFA World Cup after 1994, and Mexico hosted the event in 1970 and 1986. For Canda, this is the first opportunity to host the football carnival. North American bid had an upper hand as Morocco's bid exists largely on paper - many stadiums will need to be built and critics question how it will cope with a tournament that will be expanded to 48 teams in 2026. FIFA inspectors had classified the north African nation's stadiums, accommodation and transport as "high risk", awarding it just 2.7 out of five, with red flags raised over several critical aspects of the bid but still they won. A FIFA taskforce warned last month "the amount of new infrastructure required for the Morocco 2026 bid to become reality cannot be overstated". The report left the US-Canada-Mexico bid as the clear front-runner after giving it a rating of four out of five.

US, Mexico and Canada to host 2026 FIFA World Cup

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has warned that China is using its economic ties and influence to interfere with political happenings of partner countries.

A CSIS report, titled "Re-thinking security - China and the age of strategic rivalry" has one special segment titled "Fingers in all pots: The threat of foreign interference in democratic systems", wherein it is mentioned on how China is "targeting" New Zealand for its own benefit.

According to an article published in the Toronto Sunday Guardian (TSG), Chinese political influence activities in New Zealand have now reached a "critical level".

Beijing, the article claims is seeking access to strategic information and resources that could eventually undermine the integrity of the New Zealand political system, threaten New Zealand sovereignty, and directly affect the rights of New Zealanders to freedom of speech, association and religion.

Commenting on the tenure of President Xi Jinping, the report summarises his influence into four categories, "A strengthening of efforts to manage and guide overseas Chinese communities and utilise them as agents of Chinese foreign policy, renewed emphasis on people-to-people, party-to-party, and PRC enterprise-to-foreign enterprise relations with the aim of co-opting foreigners to support and promote the CCP's foreign policy goals, the roll-out of a global, multi-platform, strategic communication strategy and the formation of a China-centred economic and strategic bloc".

The report further states that, "China is prepared to use threats and enticements to bring business and political elites to its side, and motivate them to defend the Chinese perspective on disputes such as the status of Taiwan and the South China Sea."

"Beijing will use its commercial position to gain access to businesses, technologies and infrastructure that can be exploited for intelligence objectives," the report adds. (ANI)

Beijing, the article claims is seeking access to strategic information and resources that could eventually undermine the integrity of the New Zealand political system

The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has warned that China is using its economic ties and influence to interfere with political happenings of partner countries. A CSIS report, titled "Re-thinking security - China and the age of strategic rivalry" has one special segment titled "Fingers in all pots: The threat of foreign interference in democratic systems", wherein it is mentioned on how China is "targeting" New Zealand for its own benefit. According to an article published in the Toronto Sunday Guardian (TSG), Chinese political influence activities in New Zealand have now reached a "critical level". Beijing, the article claims is seeking access to strategic information and resources that could eventually undermine the integrity of the New Zealand political system, threaten New Zealand sovereignty, and directly affect the rights of New Zealanders to freedom of speech, association and religion. Commenting on the tenure of President Xi Jinping, the report summarises his influence into four categories, "A strengthening of efforts to manage and guide overseas Chinese communities and utilise them as agents of Chinese foreign policy, renewed emphasis on people-to-people, party-to-party, and PRC enterprise-to-foreign enterprise relations with the aim of co-opting foreigners to support and promote the CCP's foreign policy goals, the roll-out of a global, multi-platform, strategic communication strategy and the formation of a China-centred economic and strategic bloc". The report further states that, "China is prepared to use threats and enticements to bring business and political elites to its side, and motivate them to defend the Chinese perspective on disputes such as the status of Taiwan and the South China Sea." "Beijing will use its commercial position to gain access to businesses, technologies and infrastructure that can be exploited for intelligence objectives," the report adds. (ANI)

Canadian intelligence warns of Chinese interference

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Saturday that no country benefits from protectionism, and that all measures should be consistent with World Trade Organization rules, as he wrapped up a sometimes contentious summit with other Group of Seven leaders in Canada.

G7 leaders on Saturday papered over cracks in their alliance at a summit in Canada but came away with little more than an agreement to disagree as US&nbspPresident Donald Trump defiantly brandished his "America First" agenda.

Abe said there were moments of "intense debate" during the meeting, which focused on trade.

Trump last week slapped tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada, the European Union and Mexico. Japan did not win an exemption from the steel and aluminium tariffs despite its close security alliance with the United States.

On the first day of the summit, which was&nbspheld in Canada's La Malbaie, Trump pitched the idea of discarding all tariffs and trade barriers between the US and its G-7 allies.

Trump will not attend the second day of the two-day summit on account of preparing for the 'historic' summit of him and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to be held in Singapore on 12 June.

The Group of Seven leaders came to their summit in Canada braced for battle, and while everyone had smiles ready for the cameras, behind the scenes US&nbspPresident Donald Trump delivered recriminations on trade to US&nbspallies, leaving the once united club deeply divided. Trade dominated the two-day summit that began on Friday (June 8) with leaders of Germany, France, Japan, Canada, Britain and Italy returning to the topic repeatedly in meetings.

"One could say that we weren't able to completely turn around President Trump's approach on trade, he's continuing to say what he says, fine, so be it," Trudeau said.

Leaders who had vowed to confront Trump over his decision to impose tariffs on US&nbspallies last week as part of his "America First" agenda, showered Trump with data one after the other.

Abe said that anxiety and dissatisfaction with globalization at times led to protectionism and intense confrontation between countries.

"But we must not turn back the clock," he said. "For the G7 to have exchanges of measures that restrict trade will not be in the interests of any country," Abe said.

Abe also said the G7 had expressed support for Trump ahead of his historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jung Un in Singapore on Tuesday.

Abe reiterated that Japan would be willing to provide economic aid for Pyongyang if the issues of its nuclear and missile programmes, as well as the matter of Japanese citizens kidnapped by North Korean agents decades ago, were resolved.

"Of course, the problem of North Korea ... is not so easily resolved, but we hope this historic U.S.-North Korea summit will be a success and that progress will be made on the issues of nuclear, missiles and the abductees," he said. "Japan wants to completely cooperate and support this."

G7 leaders on Saturday papered over cracks in their alliance at a summit in Canada but came away with little more than an agreement to disagree as US President Donald Trump defiantly brandished his 'America First' agenda

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Saturday that no country benefits from protectionism, and that all measures should be consistent with World Trade Organization rules, as he wrapped up a sometimes contentious summit with other Group of Seven leaders in Canada. G7 leaders on Saturday papered over cracks in their alliance at a summit in Canada but came away with little more than an agreement to disagree as US&nbspPresident Donald Trump defiantly brandished his "America First" agenda. Abe said there were moments of "intense debate" during the meeting, which focused on trade. Trump last week slapped tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada, the European Union and Mexico. Japan did not win an exemption from the steel and aluminium tariffs despite its close security alliance with the United States. On the first day of the summit, which was&nbspheld in Canada's La Malbaie, Trump pitched the idea of discarding all tariffs and trade barriers between the US and its G-7 allies. Trump will not attend the second day of the two-day summit on account of preparing for the 'historic' summit of him and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to be held in Singapore on 12 June. The Group of Seven leaders came to their summit in Canada braced for battle, and while everyone had smiles ready for the cameras, behind the scenes US&nbspPresident Donald Trump delivered recriminations on trade to US&nbspallies, leaving the once united club deeply divided. Trade dominated the two-day summit that began on Friday (June 8) with leaders of Germany, France, Japan, Canada, Britain and Italy returning to the topic repeatedly in meetings. "One could say that we weren't able to completely turn around President Trump's approach on trade, he's continuing to say what he says, fine, so be it," Trudeau said. Leaders who had vowed to confront Trump over his decision to impose tariffs on US&nbspallies last week as part of his "America First" agenda, showered Trump with data one after the other. Abe said that anxiety and dissatisfaction with globalization at times led to protectionism and intense confrontation between countries. "But we must not turn back the clock," he said. "For the G7 to have exchanges of measures that restrict trade will not be in the interests of any country," Abe said. Abe also said the G7 had expressed support for Trump ahead of his historic summit with North Korean leader Kim Jung Un in Singapore on Tuesday. Abe reiterated that Japan would be willing to provide economic aid for Pyongyang if the issues of its nuclear and missile programmes, as well as the matter of Japanese citizens kidnapped by North Korean agents decades ago, were resolved. "Of course, the problem of North Korea ... is not so easily resolved, but we hope this historic U.S.-North Korea summit will be a success and that progress will be made on the issues of nuclear, missiles and the abductees," he said. "Japan wants to completely cooperate and support this."

After G7, Japan's Abe says no country benefits from protectionism

Out of a hundred photos that were taken during the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada, this particular picture of German Chancellor Angela Merkel stood out after it was surfaced on social media on Saturday..

The picture of the German Chancellor, shared on her Instagram account, has invited hilarious captions and memes on social media with many calling it an 'iconic photo' of the summit.

Merkel, in the picture can be seen, staring down US President Donald Trump while standing behind a table with both hands pressed firmly into its surface atop some documents.

With as neutral an expression as possible, she stares directly at President Trump, who sits on the other side of the table.

Merkel captioned the picture: "Day two of the G-7 summit in Canada: spontaneous meeting between two working sessions."

Though it is not known that what was really going on at that moment, the image garnered plenty of commentary from some experts on the internet.

While many said that the picture sums up Trump's time at G-7, several others called it a 'power dynamic'.&nbsp"Big power move from Merkel's social media team, posting this extremely memeable picture on her Instagram," said a journalist Elena Cresci.

To many social media users the picture was something more than "a thousand words" while several others had a deeper interpretation of the photograph.

"It looks as if Madam Merkel is teaching The Donald a lesson! Preach Chacellor, preach!", "As US we apologise for his childish behavior", "Show him who's the boss Angela," a social media user said.

"It's like a Renaissance master who captures a complex human narrative in one well-framed canvas. This one photo seems to sum up so much of our times," tweeted American journalist Dan Rather.

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big power move from Merkel's social media team, posting this extremely memeable picture on her Instagram <a href="https://t.co/GK0EFWXqel">pic.twitter.com/GK0EFWXqel</a>
— Elena Cresci (@elenacresci) <a href="https://twitter.com/elenacresci/status/1005501663929565185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It's like a Renaissance master who captures a complex human narrative in one well-framed canvas. This one photo seems to sum up so much of our times. <a href="https://t.co/I9WppPrnWZ">https://t.co/I9WppPrnWZ</a>
— Dan Rather (@DanRather) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanRather/status/1005579871978967040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Merkel and Trump are also surrounded by slew of other leaders, including Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and U.S. national security adviser John Bolton.

On the first day of the summit, which is being held in Canada's La Malbaie, Trump pitched the idea of discarding all tariffs and trade barriers between the US and its G-7 allies.

Trump will not attend the second day of the two-day summit on account of preparing for the 'historic' summit of him and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to be held in Singapore on 12 June.

The picture of the German Chancellor, shared on her Instagram account, has invited hilarious captions and memes on social media with many calling it an 'iconic photo' of the summit

Out of a hundred photos that were taken during the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Canada, this particular picture of German Chancellor Angela Merkel stood out after it was surfaced on social media on Saturday.. The picture of the German Chancellor, shared on her Instagram account, has invited hilarious captions and memes on social media with many calling it an 'iconic photo' of the summit. Merkel, in the picture can be seen, staring down US President Donald Trump while standing behind a table with both hands pressed firmly into its surface atop some documents. With as neutral an expression as possible, she stares directly at President Trump, who sits on the other side of the table. Merkel captioned the picture: "Day two of the G-7 summit in Canada: spontaneous meeting between two working sessions." Though it is not known that what was really going on at that moment, the image garnered plenty of commentary from some experts on the internet. While many said that the picture sums up Trump's time at G-7, several others called it a 'power dynamic'. "Big power move from Merkel's social media team, posting this extremely memeable picture on her Instagram," said a journalist Elena Cresci. To many social media users the picture was something more than "a thousand words" while several others had a deeper interpretation of the photograph. "It looks as if Madam Merkel is teaching The Donald a lesson! Preach Chacellor, preach!", "As US we apologise for his childish behavior", "Show him who's the boss Angela," a social media user said. "It's like a Renaissance master who captures a complex human narrative in one well-framed canvas. This one photo seems to sum up so much of our times," tweeted American journalist Dan Rather. big power move from Merkel's social media team, posting this extremely memeable picture on her Instagram pic.twitter.com/GK0EFWXqel — Elena Cresci (@elenacresci) June 9, 2018 × It's like a Renaissance master who captures a complex human narrative in one well-framed canvas. This one photo seems to sum up so much of our times. https://t.co/I9WppPrnWZ — Dan Rather (@DanRather) June 9, 2018 × Merkel and Trump are also surrounded by slew of other leaders, including Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and U.S. national security adviser John Bolton. On the first day of the summit, which is being held in Canada's La Malbaie, Trump pitched the idea of discarding all tariffs and trade barriers between the US and its G-7 allies. Trump will not attend the second day of the two-day summit on account of preparing for the 'historic' summit of him and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to be held in Singapore on 12 June.

This picture from G-7 summit 'speaks a thousand words'

Lashing out at the longtime US ally and northern neighbour, President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;tweeted that Canadian Prime Minister&nbsp;Justin Trudeau&nbsp;is "dishonest & weak" and that the US was pulling back its endorsement of the G-7 summit's communique in part because of what he called Trudeau's "false statements" at a news conference.

In an extraordinary set of tweets aboard Air Force One, on its way to Singapore for Tuesday's summit with North Korea's Kim Jong-un, Trump threw the G-7 summit into disarray Saturday and threatened to escalate his&nbsp;trade war&nbsp;just as Canada released the G-7's official communique. Its statement took a generally positive view of the leaders' positions on trade matters while acknowledging tensions with the US 
 
A few hours earlier, Trudeau had told reporters that all seven leaders had come together to sign the joint declaration. 
 
Trump tweeted: "Based on Justin's false statements at his news conference, and the fact that Canada is charging massive Tariffs to our US farmers, workers and companies, I have instructed our US Reps not to endorse the Communique as we look at Tariffs on automobiles flooding the US Market!"

He followed up by tweeting: "PM Justin Trudeau of Canada acted so meek and mild during our (at)G7 meetings only to give a news conference after I left saying that, "US Tariffs were kind of insulting" and he "will not be pushed around." Very dishonest & weak. Our Tariffs are in response to his of 270% on dairy!"

In a statement, a spokesman for Trudeau did not address Trump's insults. "We are focused on everything we accomplished here at the (hash)G7 summit," spokesman Cameron Ahmad said. "The Prime Minister said nothing he hasn't said before -- both in public, and in private conversations with the President." 
 
During an evening stroll with his wife and another couple, Trudeau was asked a couple of times by a reporter for his reaction to Trump's tweets. And he was also asked for his thoughts on what Trump's move could mean for the future of the G7 . 
 
Trudeau didn't answer the questions, responding to journalists at the photo op: "Good to see you guys ... It's a beautiful evening, a great weekend." 
 
Trump's personal attack on Trudeau is unprecedented in the countries' longstanding relationship. 
 
As he exited the world summit, Trump had delivered a stark warning to America's trading partners not to counter his decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. But the summit host, Trudeau, whose nation was among those singled out by Trump, pushed back and said he would not hesitate to retaliate against his neighbour to the south. 
 
"If they retaliate, they're making a mistake," Trump declared before departing the annual Group of Seven summit, which includes Britain, Italy, France, Germany and Japan.

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Based on Justin’s false statements at his news conference, and the fact that Canada is charging massive Tariffs to our U.S. farmers, workers and companies, I have instructed our U.S. Reps not to endorse the Communique as we look at Tariffs on automobiles flooding the U.S. Market!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1005586152076689408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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PM Justin Trudeau of Canada acted so meek and mild during our <a href="https://twitter.com/g7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@G7</a> meetings only to give a news conference after I left saying that, “US Tariffs were kind of insulting” and he “will not be pushed around.” Very dishonest & weak. Our Tariffs are in response to his of 270% on dairy!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1005586562959093760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Trudeau later said he reiterated to Trump that tariffs will harm industries and workers on both sides of the US-Canada border. He said unleashing retaliatory measures "is not something I relish doing" but that he wouldn't hesitate to do so because "I will always protect Canadian workers and Canadian interests." 
 
"As Canadians, we are polite, we're reasonable, but also we will not be pushed around," Trudeau said. 
 
Despite the sharp differences, Trudeau said all seven leaders had come together to sign a joint declaration despite having "some strong, firm conversations on trade, and specifically on American tariffs." 
 
Trump himself insisted relationships with allies were a "ten" just before he left the summit. But Trump's abbreviated stay at this Quebec resort saw him continuing the same type of tough talk on trade as when he departed the White House, when he accused Trudeau of being "indignant." 
 
The summit came during an ongoing trade dispute with China and served as a precursor to the unprecedented meeting with Kim, in which Trump has sought to extend a hand to the Asian autocrat who has long bedeviled the international order. 
 
"His message from Quebec to Singapore is that he is going to meld the industrial democracies to his will -- and bring back Russia," said Steve Bannon, Trump's former campaign and White House adviser. Bannon said China is "now on notice that Trump will not back down from even allies' complaints in his goal of 'America First."' 
 
Speaking on Saturday during a rare solo news conference, Trump said he pressed for the G-7 countries to eliminate all tariffs, trade barriers and subsidies in their trading practices. He reiterated his longstanding view that the US has been taken advantage of in global trade, adding, "We're like the piggy bank that everybody's robbing, and that ends." 
 
He said US farmers had been harmed by tariffs and other barriers and warned that US trading partners would need to provide him with more favorable terms. "It's going to stop or we'll stop trading with them," he said. 
 
Trump cited progress on reaching an agreement on the&nbsp;North American Free Trade Agreement&nbsp;with Canada and Mexico, saying the final outcome would lead either to an improved trade deal or separate pacts with the two US neighbours. Trump said he was discussing two types of sunset provisions in which any of the countries could leave the deal. A Canadian official said the leaders discussed accelerating the pace of the talks. 
 
But Trudeau objected strenuously to a sunset clause of any length. "If you put an expiry date on any trade deal, that's not a trade deal. That's our unequivocal position," he said. 
 
Prior to his arrival on Friday, the president injected additional controversy by suggesting that the G-7 offer a seat at the table to Russia, which was ousted from the group in 2014. Trump said Saturday that re-admitting Russia to the elite club would be "an asset," telling reporters, "We're looking for peace in the world." Trump said he had not spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a while. 
 
Discussing Russia's absence, Trump made the vague comment that "something happened a while ago where Russia is no longer in. I think it would be an asset to have Russia back in." In fact, Russia was expelled from what was then the G-8 after it invaded and annexed Crimea and for its support for pro-Russia separatists in Ukraine. 
 
Trump placed the blame on his predecessor, President Barack Obama. "He was the one who let Crimea get away -- that was during his administration," he said, adding: "Obama can say all he wants, but he allowed Russia to take Crimea. I may have had a much different attitude." 
 
It was not clear what Trump thought Obama should have done to prevent Putin from sending in Russian troops to seize the Black Sea peninsula from neighbouring Ukraine. 
 
Trudeau said he told Trump that readmitting Russia "is not something that we are even remotely looking at at this time." 
 
Trump departed the annual G-7 gathering after arriving late to a breakfast on gender equity and skipping later sessions on climate change, clean energy and ocean protection.&nbsp;

Trump's recent moves, building on 18 months of nationalist policy-making, left him out of step with the globally minded organization and prompted speculation that the group could fracture into something more like the "G-6 plus one." 
 
A key question was whether the seven countries could agree on a joint statement of priorities at the conclusion of the meeting. Macron said Thursday on Twitter, "The American President may not mind being isolated, but neither do we mind signing a 6 country agreement if need be." Trump said Friday he thinks the group will produce a joint statement.

In public, Trump bantered easily with his fellow leaders, but the meeting came at a tense moment in the relationships, with allies steaming over Trump's new tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from Canada, Mexico and the&nbsp;<a href="https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/European-Union" pg="AS1_InlineMedia#AS1_https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/international-business/trump-throws-g-7-into-disarray-with-tweets-after-he-leaves/articleshow/64525655.cms~European Union-https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/topic/European-Union">European Union</a>. 
 
French President Emmanuel Macron said he and Trump had "open and direct" discussions, adding that he thought there was a way to get a "win-win" outcome on trade. Details remained unclear.

Trump's personal attack on Trudeau is unprecedented in the countries' longstanding relationship

Lashing out at the longtime US ally and northern neighbour, President Donald Trump tweeted that Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is "dishonest & weak" and that the US was pulling back its endorsement of the G-7 summit's communique in part because of what he called Trudeau's "false statements" at a news conference. In an extraordinary set of tweets aboard Air Force One, on its way to Singapore for Tuesday's summit with North Korea's Kim Jong-un, Trump threw the G-7 summit into disarray Saturday and threatened to escalate his trade war just as Canada released the G-7's official communique. Its statement took a generally positive view of the leaders' positions on trade matters while acknowledging tensions with the US A few hours earlier, Trudeau had told reporters that all seven leaders had come together to sign the joint declaration. Trump tweeted: "Based on Justin's false statements at his news conference, and the fact that Canada is charging massive Tariffs to our US farmers, workers and companies, I have instructed our US Reps not to endorse the Communique as we look at Tariffs on automobiles flooding the US Market!" He followed up by tweeting: "PM Justin Trudeau of Canada acted so meek and mild during our (at)G7 meetings only to give a news conference after I left saying that, "US Tariffs were kind of insulting" and he "will not be pushed around." Very dishonest & weak. Our Tariffs are in response to his of 270% on dairy!" In a statement, a spokesman for Trudeau did not address Trump's insults. "We are focused on everything we accomplished here at the (hash)G7 summit," spokesman Cameron Ahmad said. "The Prime Minister said nothing he hasn't said before -- both in public, and in private conversations with the President." During an evening stroll with his wife and another couple, Trudeau was asked a couple of times by a reporter for his reaction to Trump's tweets. And he was also asked for his thoughts on what Trump's move could mean for the future of the G7 . Trudeau didn't answer the questions, responding to journalists at the photo op: "Good to see you guys ... It's a beautiful evening, a great weekend." Trump's personal attack on Trudeau is unprecedented in the countries' longstanding relationship. As he exited the world summit, Trump had delivered a stark warning to America's trading partners not to counter his decision to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports. But the summit host, Trudeau, whose nation was among those singled out by Trump, pushed back and said he would not hesitate to retaliate against his neighbour to the south. "If they retaliate, they're making a mistake," Trump declared before departing the annual Group of Seven summit, which includes Britain, Italy, France, Germany and Japan. Based on Justin’s false statements at his news conference, and the fact that Canada is charging massive Tariffs to our U.S. farmers, workers and companies, I have instructed our U.S. Reps not to endorse the Communique as we look at Tariffs on automobiles flooding the U.S. Market! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 9, 2018 × PM Justin Trudeau of Canada acted so meek and mild during our @G7 meetings only to give a news conference after I left saying that, “US Tariffs were kind of insulting” and he “will not be pushed around.” Very dishonest & weak. Our Tariffs are in response to his of 270% on dairy! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 9, 2018 × Trudeau later said he reiterated to Trump that tariffs will harm industries and workers on both sides of the US-Canada border. He said unleashing retaliatory measures "is not something I relish doing" but that he wouldn't hesitate to do so because "I will always protect Canadian workers and Canadian interests." "As Canadians, we are polite, we're reasonable, but also we will not be pushed around," Trudeau said. Despite the sharp differences, Trudeau said all seven leaders had come together to sign a joint declaration despite having "some strong, firm conversations on trade, and specifically on American tariffs." Trump himself insisted relationships with allies were a "ten" just before he left the summit. But Trump's abbreviated stay at this Quebec resort saw him continuing the same type of tough talk on trade as when he departed the White House, when he accused Trudeau of being "indignant." The summit came during an ongoing trade dispute with China and served as a precursor to the unprecedented meeting with Kim, in which Trump has sought to extend a hand to the Asian autocrat who has long bedeviled the international order. "His message from Quebec to Singapore is that he is going to meld the industrial democracies to his will -- and bring back Russia," said Steve Bannon, Trump's former campaign and White House adviser. Bannon said China is "now on notice that Trump will not back down from even allies' complaints in his goal of 'America First."' Speaking on Saturday during a rare solo news conference, Trump said he pressed for the G-7 countries to eliminate all tariffs, trade barriers and subsidies in their trading practices. He reiterated his longstanding view that the US has been taken advantage of in global trade, adding, "We're like the piggy bank that everybody's robbing, and that ends." He said US farmers had been harmed by tariffs and other barriers and warned that US trading partners would need to provide him with more favorable terms. "It's going to stop or we'll stop trading with them," he said. Trump cited progress on reaching an agreement on the North American Free Trade Agreement with Canada and Mexico, saying the final outcome would lead either to an improved trade deal or separate pacts with the two US neighbours. Trump said he was discussing two types of sunset provisions in which any of the countries could leave the deal. A Canadian official said the leaders discussed accelerating the pace of the talks. But Trudeau objected strenuously to a sunset clause of any length. "If you put an expiry date on any trade deal, that's not a trade deal. That's our unequivocal position," he said. Prior to his arrival on Friday, the president injected additional controversy by suggesting that the G-7 offer a seat at the table to Russia, which was ousted from the group in 2014. Trump said Saturday that re-admitting Russia to the elite club would be "an asset," telling reporters, "We're looking for peace in the world." Trump said he had not spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin in a while. Discussing Russia's absence, Trump made the vague comment that "something happened a while ago where Russia is no longer in. I think it would be an asset to have Russia back in." In fact, Russia was expelled from what was then the G-8 after it invaded and annexed Crimea and for its support for pro-Russia separatists in Ukraine. Trump placed the blame on his predecessor, President Barack Obama. "He was the one who let Crimea get away -- that was during his administration," he said, adding: "Obama can say all he wants, but he allowed Russia to take Crimea. I may have had a much different attitude." It was not clear what Trump thought Obama should have done to prevent Putin from sending in Russian troops to seize the Black Sea peninsula from neighbouring Ukraine. Trudeau said he told Trump that readmitting Russia "is not something that we are even remotely looking at at this time." Trump departed the annual G-7 gathering after arriving late to a breakfast on gender equity and skipping later sessions on climate change, clean energy and ocean protection. Trump's recent moves, building on 18 months of nationalist policy-making, left him out of step with the globally minded organization and prompted speculation that the group could fracture into something more like the "G-6 plus one." A key question was whether the seven countries could agree on a joint statement of priorities at the conclusion of the meeting. Macron said Thursday on Twitter, "The American President may not mind being isolated, but neither do we mind signing a 6 country agreement if need be." Trump said Friday he thinks the group will produce a joint statement. In public, Trump bantered easily with his fellow leaders, but the meeting came at a tense moment in the relationships, with allies steaming over Trump's new tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from Canada, Mexico and the European Union. French President Emmanuel Macron said he and Trump had "open and direct" discussions, adding that he thought there was a way to get a "win-win" outcome on trade. Details remained unclear.

Trump throws G-7 into disarray with tweets after he leaves

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said nothing in his G7 news conference that he has not said before to U.S. President Donald Trump, his office said after Trump criticized Trudeau on Twitter as “weak and dishonest” in the wake of the Group of Seven summit.

“The prime minister said nothing he hasn’t said before — both in public, and in private conversations with the president,” Trudeau’s office said in a statement released on Twitter, which added Trudeau remained focused on what was accomplished at the two-day summit in Quebec.

After departing from the Quebec summit for Singapore, Trump tweeted that Trudeau's remarks at a news conference, where he said Canada would not be pushed around, "were very dishonest and weak".

"PM Justin Trudeau of Canada acted so meek and mild during our @G7 meetings only to give a news conference after I left saying that, 'US Tariffs were kind of insulting' and he 'will not be pushed around.' Very dishonest & weak. Our Tariffs are in response to his of 270% on dairy!" the US&nbsppresident tweeted.

The Group of Seven leaders came to their summit in Canada braced for battle, and while everyone had smiles ready for the cameras, behind the scenes U.S. President Donald Trump delivered recriminations on trade to U.S. allies, leaving the once united club deeply divided. Trade dominated the two-day summit that began on Friday (June 8) with leaders of Germany, France, Japan, Canada, Britain and Italy returning to the topic repeatedly in meetings.

"One could say that we weren't able to completely turn around President Trump's approach on trade, he's continuing to say what he says, fine, so be it," Trudeau said.

Leaders who had vowed to confront Trump over his decision to impose tariffs on U.S. allies last week as part of his "America First" agenda, showered Trump with data one after the other.

"I told the president that we would be moving forward with retaliatory equivalent tariffs as of July 1st," Trudeau said. "And he expressed to me that he thought that would be a mistake and I certainly agree that it's not something that we want to do. I don't want to hurt American workers. They're our neighbors, they're our friends. But my job is to stand up for Canadian workers, Canadian interests, and I will do that without flinching."

Trump had also suggested that Russia be re-admitted to the G7. Russia was suspended from the group in 2014 because of its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said EU countries at the summit agreed that the conditions to readmit Russia had not been met and even Moscow seemed to reject the suggestion.

"I said very simply that it is not something we are even remotely interested in looking at at this time, to have Russia return to the G7," Trudeau said.

After departing from the Quebec summit for Singapore, Trump tweeted that Trudeau's remarks at a news conference, where he said Canada would not be pushed around, 'were very dishonest and weak'

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said nothing in his G7 news conference that he has not said before to U.S. President Donald Trump, his office said after Trump criticized Trudeau on Twitter as “weak and dishonest” in the wake of the Group of Seven summit. “The prime minister said nothing he hasn’t said before — both in public, and in private conversations with the president,” Trudeau’s office said in a statement released on Twitter, which added Trudeau remained focused on what was accomplished at the two-day summit in Quebec. After departing from the Quebec summit for Singapore, Trump tweeted that Trudeau's remarks at a news conference, where he said Canada would not be pushed around, "were very dishonest and weak". "PM Justin Trudeau of Canada acted so meek and mild during our @G7 meetings only to give a news conference after I left saying that, 'US Tariffs were kind of insulting' and he 'will not be pushed around.' Very dishonest & weak. Our Tariffs are in response to his of 270% on dairy!" the US&nbsppresident tweeted. The Group of Seven leaders came to their summit in Canada braced for battle, and while everyone had smiles ready for the cameras, behind the scenes U.S. President Donald Trump delivered recriminations on trade to U.S. allies, leaving the once united club deeply divided. Trade dominated the two-day summit that began on Friday (June 8) with leaders of Germany, France, Japan, Canada, Britain and Italy returning to the topic repeatedly in meetings. "One could say that we weren't able to completely turn around President Trump's approach on trade, he's continuing to say what he says, fine, so be it," Trudeau said. Leaders who had vowed to confront Trump over his decision to impose tariffs on U.S. allies last week as part of his "America First" agenda, showered Trump with data one after the other. "I told the president that we would be moving forward with retaliatory equivalent tariffs as of July 1st," Trudeau said. "And he expressed to me that he thought that would be a mistake and I certainly agree that it's not something that we want to do. I don't want to hurt American workers. They're our neighbors, they're our friends. But my job is to stand up for Canadian workers, Canadian interests, and I will do that without flinching." Trump had also suggested that Russia be re-admitted to the G7. Russia was suspended from the group in 2014 because of its annexation of Crimea from Ukraine. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said EU countries at the summit agreed that the conditions to readmit Russia had not been met and even Moscow seemed to reject the suggestion. "I said very simply that it is not something we are even remotely interested in looking at at this time, to have Russia return to the G7," Trudeau said.

In battle of tweets, Canada's Trudeau dismisses Trump critique

&nbspUS President Donald Trump said on Saturday (June 9) that he has asked US representatives not to endorse the joint communique put out by the Group of Seven leaders after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's "false statements" at a news conference.

After departing from the Quebec summit for Singapore, Trump tweeted that Trudeau's remarks at a news conference, where he said Canada would not be pushed around, "were very dishonest and weak".

"PM Justin Trudeau of Canada acted so meek and mild during our @G7 meetings only to give a news conference after I left saying that, 'US Tariffs were kind of insulting' and he 'will not be pushed around.' Very dishonest & weak. Our Tariffs are in response to his of 270% on dairy!" the US president tweeted.

&nbsp

&nbspUS President Donald Trump said on Saturday (June 9) that he has asked US representatives not to endorse the joint communique put out by the Group of Seven leaders after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's "false statements" at a news conference. After departing from the Quebec summit for Singapore, Trump tweeted that Trudeau's remarks at a news conference, where he said Canada would not be pushed around, "were very dishonest and weak". "PM Justin Trudeau of Canada acted so meek and mild during our @G7 meetings only to give a news conference after I left saying that, 'US Tariffs were kind of insulting' and he 'will not be pushed around.' Very dishonest & weak. Our Tariffs are in response to his of 270% on dairy!" the US president tweeted.

Trump says he does not endorse G7 communique, after 'weak' Trudeau comments

United States President Donald Trump, who is attending two-day Group of Seven summit in Canada`s La Malbaie, reportedly pitched the idea of discarding all tariffs and trade barriers between the US and its G-7 allies at the summit.

"We should at least consider no tariffs, no barriers - scrapping all of it," the US media reported Trump, as saying to the assembled leaders. Trump`s latest suggestion is ironic as it comes amid a tit-for-tat trade war, which the US President launched lately.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reportedly challenged Trump`s remarks, asking, "What about subsidies?"Politico reported that leaders present for the meeting took Trump`s suggestion as largely rhetorical.

Optimistically responding to Trump`s suggestion, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, is reported to have told him, "We`ll take it as a starting point."

Earlier&nbsp;on Friday, Trump had a spat with French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over Twitter, lashing out at them in a series of tweets over the criticism on U.S` imposition of trade tariff."Why isn`t the European Union and Canada informing the public that for years they have used massive Trade Tariffs and non-monetary Trade Barriers against the US. Totally unfair to our farmers, workers and companies. Take down your tariffs & barriers or we will more than match you!" Trump tweeted&nbsp;on Friday.

"Prime Minister Trudeau is being so indignant, bringing up the relationship that the US and Canada had over the many years and all sorts of other things...but he doesn`t bring up the fact that they charge us up to 300% on dairy - hurting our Farmers, killing our Agriculture!," Trump wrote in another tweet.

In another Twitter post, Trump wrote, "Please tell Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron that they are charging the US massive tariffs and create non-monetary barriers. The EU trade surplus with the US is $151 Billion, and Canada keeps our farmers and others out. Look forward to seeing them&nbsp;tomorrow."

On May 31, the US had announced the imposition of 25 and 10 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminium respectively on three of its biggest trading partners - Canada, Mexico and the European Union (EU).

Justin Trudeau reportedly challenged Trump`s remarks, asking, What about subsidies? Politico reported that leaders present for the meeting took Trump`s suggestion as largely rhetorical

United States President Donald Trump, who is attending two-day Group of Seven summit in Canada`s La Malbaie, reportedly pitched the idea of discarding all tariffs and trade barriers between the US and its G-7 allies at the summit. "We should at least consider no tariffs, no barriers - scrapping all of it," the US media reported Trump, as saying to the assembled leaders. Trump`s latest suggestion is ironic as it comes amid a tit-for-tat trade war, which the US President launched lately. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reportedly challenged Trump`s remarks, asking, "What about subsidies?"Politico reported that leaders present for the meeting took Trump`s suggestion as largely rhetorical. Optimistically responding to Trump`s suggestion, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, is reported to have told him, "We`ll take it as a starting point." Earlier on Friday, Trump had a spat with French President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over Twitter, lashing out at them in a series of tweets over the criticism on U.S` imposition of trade tariff."Why isn`t the European Union and Canada informing the public that for years they have used massive Trade Tariffs and non-monetary Trade Barriers against the US. Totally unfair to our farmers, workers and companies. Take down your tariffs & barriers or we will more than match you!" Trump tweeted on Friday. "Prime Minister Trudeau is being so indignant, bringing up the relationship that the US and Canada had over the many years and all sorts of other things...but he doesn`t bring up the fact that they charge us up to 300% on dairy - hurting our Farmers, killing our Agriculture!," Trump wrote in another tweet. In another Twitter post, Trump wrote, "Please tell Prime Minister Trudeau and President Macron that they are charging the US massive tariffs and create non-monetary barriers. The EU trade surplus with the US is $151 Billion, and Canada keeps our farmers and others out. Look forward to seeing them tomorrow." On May 31, the US had announced the imposition of 25 and 10 per cent tariffs on steel and aluminium respectively on three of its biggest trading partners - Canada, Mexico and the European Union (EU).

Trump pitches ending trade tariffs at G-7 summit: Reports

French President Emmanuel Macron on <a href="http://wionews.com/world/-europeans-nations-unanimously-oppose-president-trumps-call-to-admit-russia-into-g7-macron-143208">Friday met US President Donald Trump in </a>Canada for the continued trade talks and put pressure on the US on its decision to impose tariffs&nbsp;on metals imports. But, he may have put a tad bit too much, which was evidently seen by the aftermath of the handshake - which left a prominent imprint on the US Presidents hand.&nbsp;

Macron said on Friday that it was possible to make progress on trade issues that have split the United States and its allies after meeting with US President Donald Trump.

Following an exchange of terse messages before the summit, the two leaders struck a conciliatory tone with Trump saying that the relationship was special, but that sometimes tests occur when it comes to trade. Trump also said Macron has been helping to work on trade.&nbsp;

Previously, Macron has said that his phone calls with US President Donald Trump and other world leaders were just like sausages: better not explain what’s inside.

Borrowing a famous quote from 19th-century Prussian statesman Otto von Bismarck, Macron summed up his policy of refraining from making off-the-record comments about his conversations with other world leaders.

“As Bismarck used to say, if we explained to people how sausages were made, it’s unlikely they’d keep eating them,” Macron told reporters. “So I like it when people see the finished meal, but I’m not convinced the kitchen commentary helps with delivering the meal or eating it,” Macron added.

Meanwhile, the United States and European Union will establish a dialogue on trade within the next two weeks, a French official said on Friday, signalling a modest step forward for bitterly divided allies at a Group of Seven summit in Canada.

US trading partners have been furious over President Donald Trump's decision last week to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada, the European Union and Mexico as part of his "America First" agenda. Some countries have retaliated with their own levies on US imports.

While G7 leaders confronted Trump with a slew of data on imports and exports in a bid to sway his thinking, Trump countered his own numbers and held his position that the United States was at a disadvantage on international trade, an official who followed the talks said.

But Trump struck a more affable tone after a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, saying the French leader was helping work out trade issues.

"Something's going to happen. I think it will be very positive," Trump said, without giving details.

Macron said it was possible to advance the trade issues that have split the US and its allies.

&nbsp;

Macron said on Friday that it was possible to make progress on trade issues that have split the United States and its allies after meeting with US President Donald Trump

French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday met US President Donald Trump in Canada for the continued trade talks and put pressure on the US on its decision to impose tariffs on metals imports. But, he may have put a tad bit too much, which was evidently seen by the aftermath of the handshake - which left a prominent imprint on the US Presidents hand. Macron said on Friday that it was possible to make progress on trade issues that have split the United States and its allies after meeting with US President Donald Trump. Following an exchange of terse messages before the summit, the two leaders struck a conciliatory tone with Trump saying that the relationship was special, but that sometimes tests occur when it comes to trade. Trump also said Macron has been helping to work on trade. Previously, Macron has said that his phone calls with US President Donald Trump and other world leaders were just like sausages: better not explain what’s inside. Borrowing a famous quote from 19th-century Prussian statesman Otto von Bismarck, Macron summed up his policy of refraining from making off-the-record comments about his conversations with other world leaders. “As Bismarck used to say, if we explained to people how sausages were made, it’s unlikely they’d keep eating them,” Macron told reporters. “So I like it when people see the finished meal, but I’m not convinced the kitchen commentary helps with delivering the meal or eating it,” Macron added. Meanwhile, the United States and European Union will establish a dialogue on trade within the next two weeks, a French official said on Friday, signalling a modest step forward for bitterly divided allies at a Group of Seven summit in Canada. US trading partners have been furious over President Donald Trump's decision last week to impose tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from Canada, the European Union and Mexico as part of his "America First" agenda. Some countries have retaliated with their own levies on US imports. While G7 leaders confronted Trump with a slew of data on imports and exports in a bid to sway his thinking, Trump countered his own numbers and held his position that the United States was at a disadvantage on international trade, an official who followed the talks said. But Trump struck a more affable tone after a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, saying the French leader was helping work out trade issues. "Something's going to happen. I think it will be very positive," Trump said, without giving details. Macron said it was possible to advance the trade issues that have split the US and its allies.

Watch: Macron may have put 'too much pressure' on Trump at G7, leaves thumb imprint

In a landmark move, Canadian Senators today passed a law to legalise use of recreational marijuana.

The Senators voted 52 votes for, 30 against and one abstention to pass the legislation.

PM Justin Trudeau had campaigned in 2015 on legalising marijuana. The sale of medical marijuana has been legal in Canada since 2001.

Under the legislation sales to those under 18 would be banned but provinces and territories could set their own age limits.

The Cannabis Act will now go back to the House of Commons, which passed the bill in November last year. The chanages in the new law would need to be signed off by the Senate.&nbsp

Experts believe the law could come into force by August or September after it is approved finally by both houses and the country sets up distribution networks to sell marijuana.

According to the legislation, individuals over the age of 18 could possess up to 30 grams of marijuana for personal use.

Under the legislation sales to those under 18 would be banned but provinces and territories could set their own age limits.

In a landmark move, Canadian Senators today passed a law to legalise use of recreational marijuana. The Senators voted 52 votes for, 30 against and one abstention to pass the legislation. PM Justin Trudeau had campaigned in 2015 on legalising marijuana. The sale of medical marijuana has been legal in Canada since 2001. Under the legislation sales to those under 18 would be banned but provinces and territories could set their own age limits. The Cannabis Act will now go back to the House of Commons, which passed the bill in November last year. The chanages in the new law would need to be signed off by the Senate. Experts believe the law could come into force by August or September after it is approved finally by both houses and the country sets up distribution networks to sell marijuana. According to the legislation, individuals over the age of 18 could possess up to 30 grams of marijuana for personal use.

PM Trudeau's promise: Canada's Senate approves law legalising recreational marijuana

Canada's Senate on Thursday voted to legalize recreational marijuana, clearing a major hurdle that puts the country on track to become the first Group of Seven nation to permit national use of the drug.

The upper chamber Senate voted 56-30 in favour of the legislation but included amendments that the House of Commons will need to decide on before the law can be passed.

While there is not yet a definite date for when marijuana will be available for sale, the Senate was one of the last significant obstacles standing in the way of legalization as a number of Conservative senators oppose the bill.

Health Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor said earlier this year that marijuana would only go on sale a few months after it was legalized because the new retail system needs time to start working properly.

The amendments proposed by the Senate include tighter advertising restrictions and giving the provinces say over whether Canadians can grow marijuana at home. The government's legislation would allow Canadians to grow up to four plants at home for personal use.

Although legalization has already been delayed from the government's initially planned July launch, some provinces and police forces have argued they need more time. The provinces have been left in charge establishing how and where marijuana will be sold.

The Liberals, which made legalizing recreational use part of their successful 2015 election campaign, say the new law would keep marijuana out of the hands of underage users and reduce related crime.

Canadian marijuana companies like Canopy Growth Corp, Aphria Inc, Horizons Marijuana Life Sciences ETF and Aurora Cannabis Inc have been at the center of investor frenzy surrounding attempts to legalize marijuana for recreational use nationwide.

The upper chamber Senate voted 56-30 in favour of the legislation but included amendments that the House of Commons will need to decide on before the law can be passed

Canada's Senate on Thursday voted to legalize recreational marijuana, clearing a major hurdle that puts the country on track to become the first Group of Seven nation to permit national use of the drug. The upper chamber Senate voted 56-30 in favour of the legislation but included amendments that the House of Commons will need to decide on before the law can be passed. While there is not yet a definite date for when marijuana will be available for sale, the Senate was one of the last significant obstacles standing in the way of legalization as a number of Conservative senators oppose the bill. Health Minister Ginette Petitpas Taylor said earlier this year that marijuana would only go on sale a few months after it was legalized because the new retail system needs time to start working properly. The amendments proposed by the Senate include tighter advertising restrictions and giving the provinces say over whether Canadians can grow marijuana at home. The government's legislation would allow Canadians to grow up to four plants at home for personal use. Although legalization has already been delayed from the government's initially planned July launch, some provinces and police forces have argued they need more time. The provinces have been left in charge establishing how and where marijuana will be sold. The Liberals, which made legalizing recreational use part of their successful 2015 election campaign, say the new law would keep marijuana out of the hands of underage users and reduce related crime. Canadian marijuana companies like Canopy Growth Corp, Aphria Inc, Horizons Marijuana Life Sciences ETF and Aurora Cannabis Inc have been at the center of investor frenzy surrounding attempts to legalize marijuana for recreational use nationwide.

Canada clears major hurdle in legalizing recreational marijuana

Before President Donald Trump sits down with a third-generation North Korean autocrat, he will face what may well turn out to be a tougher crowd,&nbspsome of America's oldest allies.

With his new tariffs increasing US isolation, Trump heads to Canada tomorrow for a meeting of the Group of Seven industrialised nations.

The White House is expecting a chilly reception from Canada and West European countries, already frustrated over Trump's withdrawal from the Paris climate accord and the Iran nuclear agreement.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel previewed the dynamics yesterday, telling the German parliament that "it is apparent that we have a serious problem with multilateral agreements here, and so there will be contentious discussions." Anticipating a tense two days in Quebec, Trump has complained about having to attend the summit, particularly since it comes just before his high-stakes meeting in Singapore with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said two people with knowledge of his thinking.

But the White House has signalled no change in plans.

"The president wants to go on the trip," Larry Kudlow, Trump's top economic adviser, said of the summit in Canada. "The president is at ease with all of these tough issues.

"There may be disagreements," Kudlow added. "I regard this as much like a family quarrel."

Trump also is set to hold a series of one-on-one meetings, including with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and French President Emmanuel Macron. Trump is unlikely to back away from the nationalistic policies that have frustrated and unnerved allies but which he sees as key promises to his most loyal voters.

He has highlighted his efforts on Twitter, writing Monday: "The US has made such bad trade deals over so many years that we can only WIN!" Kudlow said allies should understand that Trump "will do what is necessary to protect the US, its businesses and its workforce," adding that Trump "has always said, and I agree, tariffs are a tool in that effort."

Trump announced in March that he was imposing tariffs on imports of steel and aluminum, but he temporarily granted a waiver to US allies like Canada, Mexico and the European Union, and also to China, as his administration said trade talks were continuing.

Trump ended that temporary relief this month, seeking to pressure the other countries to cut new trade agreements with the US Japan was never granted a waiver, despite Prime Mininster Shinzo Abe's pleas.

Asked if the administration will respect decisions from the World Trade Organization on tariffs, Kudlow said that "international multilateral organizations are not going to determine American policy.

I think the president's made that very clear." This will be Trump's second summit of the G-7, an informal gathering that meets every year under a rotating chairmanship. The member countries are: Canada, France, Italy,

Japan, Germany, the United States and the Britain. The European Union also attends.

While trade is expected to dominate, Trudeau also wants to focus on gender equality and climate change. Kudlow was vague on whether the summit will produce a joint decision or a clear outcome on trade or other issues, saying "let them meet first."

The meeting comes after a gathering of G-7 finance ministers concluded last week with a message of "concern and disappointment" to Trump from the other six countries.

Describing the tense three days, Bruno Le Maire, France's finance and economy minister, said it was "far more a G-6 plus one than a G-7." Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin responded: "We believe in the G-7, it's an important group," adding that Trump looks forward to the gathering.

The increasingly critical tone from allies is a shift after leaders spent the past year and a half seeking to woo and cajole the American president.

Thomas Wright, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, told reporters that for Trump's first 500 days, "these countries generally were bent over backwards not to criticize President Trump.

They tried to have close relations with him. They all tried to hug him close, as we used to say about Blair and Bush." But Wright added: "There is a feeling, I think, over the last few months, that that approach has not borne fruit, and that they haven't really gotten anything for that friendly approach."

Canada in particular has been outraged by Trump's tariffs, taking umbrage at the argument that they were motivated by national security concerns.

Trudeau told NBC: "The idea that we are somehow a national security threat to the United States is, quite frankly, insulting and unacceptable." Edward Alden, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, said this marked the lowest point in decades in Canada-US relations, describing the two countries as allies that have "fought and died alongside each other" since World War I.

"This is deeply offensive to Canadians," Alden said.

Kudlow played down any conflict, saying he had "no doubt the United States and Canada will remain firm friends and allies whatever short-term disagreements may occur."&nbsp 
&nbsp

With his new tariffs increasing US isolation, Trump heads to Canada tomorrow for a meeting of the Group of Seven industrialised nations.

Before President Donald Trump sits down with a third-generation North Korean autocrat, he will face what may well turn out to be a tougher crowd,&nbspsome of America's oldest allies. With his new tariffs increasing US isolation, Trump heads to Canada tomorrow for a meeting of the Group of Seven industrialised nations. The White House is expecting a chilly reception from Canada and West European countries, already frustrated over Trump's withdrawal from the Paris climate accord and the Iran nuclear agreement. German Chancellor Angela Merkel previewed the dynamics yesterday, telling the German parliament that "it is apparent that we have a serious problem with multilateral agreements here, and so there will be contentious discussions." Anticipating a tense two days in Quebec, Trump has complained about having to attend the summit, particularly since it comes just before his high-stakes meeting in Singapore with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said two people with knowledge of his thinking. But the White House has signalled no change in plans. "The president wants to go on the trip," Larry Kudlow, Trump's top economic adviser, said of the summit in Canada. "The president is at ease with all of these tough issues. "There may be disagreements," Kudlow added. "I regard this as much like a family quarrel." Trump also is set to hold a series of one-on-one meetings, including with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and French President Emmanuel Macron. Trump is unlikely to back away from the nationalistic policies that have frustrated and unnerved allies but which he sees as key promises to his most loyal voters. He has highlighted his efforts on Twitter, writing Monday: "The US has made such bad trade deals over so many years that we can only WIN!" Kudlow said allies should understand that Trump "will do what is necessary to protect the US, its businesses and its workforce," adding that Trump "has always said, and I agree, tariffs are a tool in that effort." Trump announced in March that he was imposing tariffs on imports of steel and aluminum, but he temporarily granted a waiver to US allies like Canada, Mexico and the European Union, and also to China, as his administration said trade talks were continuing. Trump ended that temporary relief this month, seeking to pressure the other countries to cut new trade agreements with the US Japan was never granted a waiver, despite Prime Mininster Shinzo Abe's pleas. Asked if the administration will respect decisions from the World Trade Organization on tariffs, Kudlow said that "international multilateral organizations are not going to determine American policy. I think the president's made that very clear." This will be Trump's second summit of the G-7, an informal gathering that meets every year under a rotating chairmanship. The member countries are: Canada, France, Italy, Japan, Germany, the United States and the Britain. The European Union also attends. While trade is expected to dominate, Trudeau also wants to focus on gender equality and climate change. Kudlow was vague on whether the summit will produce a joint decision or a clear outcome on trade or other issues, saying "let them meet first." The meeting comes after a gathering of G-7 finance ministers concluded last week with a message of "concern and disappointment" to Trump from the other six countries. Describing the tense three days, Bruno Le Maire, France's finance and economy minister, said it was "far more a G-6 plus one than a G-7." Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin responded: "We believe in the G-7, it's an important group," adding that Trump looks forward to the gathering. The increasingly critical tone from allies is a shift after leaders spent the past year and a half seeking to woo and cajole the American president. Thomas Wright, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, told reporters that for Trump's first 500 days, "these countries generally were bent over backwards not to criticize President Trump. They tried to have close relations with him. They all tried to hug him close, as we used to say about Blair and Bush." But Wright added: "There is a feeling, I think, over the last few months, that that approach has not borne fruit, and that they haven't really gotten anything for that friendly approach." Canada in particular has been outraged by Trump's tariffs, taking umbrage at the argument that they were motivated by national security concerns. Trudeau told NBC: "The idea that we are somehow a national security threat to the United States is, quite frankly, insulting and unacceptable." Edward Alden, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, said this marked the lowest point in decades in Canada-US relations, describing the two countries as allies that have "fought and died alongside each other" since World War I. "This is deeply offensive to Canadians," Alden said. Kudlow played down any conflict, saying he had "no doubt the United States and Canada will remain firm friends and allies whatever short-term disagreements may occur."

Trump likely to face a chilly reception at G-7 conference

The world’s major industrial democracies spend at least $100 billion each year to prop up oil, gas and coal consumption, despite vows to end fossil fuel subsidies by 2025, a report said on Monday ahead of the G7 summit in Canada.

Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States - known as the Group of Seven (G7) - pledged in 2016 to phase out their support for fossil fuels by 2025.

But a study led by Britain’s Overseas Development Institute (ODI) found they spent at least $100 billion a year to support fossil fuels at home and abroad in 2015 and 2016.

“Governments often say they have no public resources to support the clean energy transition,” the study’s lead author Shelagh Whitley told the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

“What we’re trying to do is highlight that those resources are there (but) it is being used inefficiently.

“The G7 have pledged to phase out fossil fuel subsidies, but they don’t have any systems in terms of accountability to meet the pledges - they don’t have roadmaps or plans,” added Whitley, head of the ODI’s climate division.

Researchers scrutinized and scored each country against indicators such as transparency, pledges and commitments, as well as their progress toward ending the use, support and production of fossil fuels.

France was ranked the highest overall, scoring 63 out of 100 points, followed by Germany (62), Canada (54) and the UK (47), the report said.

The United States scored lowest with 42 out of 100 points due to its support for fossil fuel production and its withdrawal from a 2015 global pact to fight climate change.

President Donald Trump announced a year ago he was ditching the deal agreed upon by nearly 200 countries over opposition from businesses and US&nbsp;allies.

The 2015 Paris agreement committed nations to curbing greenhouse emissions and keeping the global hike in temperatures “well below” 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times.

Britain scored the lowest on transparency for denying that its government provided fossil fuel subsidies, even though it supported tax breaks for North Sea oil and gas exploration, the report said.

“We do not subsidize the production or consumption of fossil fuels,” a spokesman from Britain’s Treasury said in emailed comments to the Thomson Reuters Foundation.

“We are supporting other countries in phasing out their own fossil fuel subsidies, as part of our commitment to the G20 and G7 pledges,” he added.

The study, which was co-authored by Oil Change International, the International Institute for Sustainable Development and the Natural Resources Defense Council, urged G7 governments to set concrete plans to end fossil fuel subsidies by 2025 as pledged.

“What should be a low-hanging fruit in terms of moving public resources away from fossil fuels is not happening, or where it is happening, it’s not happening fast enough,” said the ODI’s Whitley.

President Donald Trump announced a year ago he was ditching the deal agreed upon by nearly 200 countries over opposition from businesses and US allies

The world’s major industrial democracies spend at least $100 billion each year to prop up oil, gas and coal consumption, despite vows to end fossil fuel subsidies by 2025, a report said on Monday ahead of the G7 summit in Canada. Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States - known as the Group of Seven (G7) - pledged in 2016 to phase out their support for fossil fuels by 2025. But a study led by Britain’s Overseas Development Institute (ODI) found they spent at least $100 billion a year to support fossil fuels at home and abroad in 2015 and 2016. “Governments often say they have no public resources to support the clean energy transition,” the study’s lead author Shelagh Whitley told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. “What we’re trying to do is highlight that those resources are there (but) it is being used inefficiently. “The G7 have pledged to phase out fossil fuel subsidies, but they don’t have any systems in terms of accountability to meet the pledges - they don’t have roadmaps or plans,” added Whitley, head of the ODI’s climate division. Researchers scrutinized and scored each country against indicators such as transparency, pledges and commitments, as well as their progress toward ending the use, support and production of fossil fuels. France was ranked the highest overall, scoring 63 out of 100 points, followed by Germany (62), Canada (54) and the UK (47), the report said. The United States scored lowest with 42 out of 100 points due to its support for fossil fuel production and its withdrawal from a 2015 global pact to fight climate change. President Donald Trump announced a year ago he was ditching the deal agreed upon by nearly 200 countries over opposition from businesses and US allies. The 2015 Paris agreement committed nations to curbing greenhouse emissions and keeping the global hike in temperatures “well below” 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial times. Britain scored the lowest on transparency for denying that its government provided fossil fuel subsidies, even though it supported tax breaks for North Sea oil and gas exploration, the report said. “We do not subsidize the production or consumption of fossil fuels,” a spokesman from Britain’s Treasury said in emailed comments to the Thomson Reuters Foundation. “We are supporting other countries in phasing out their own fossil fuel subsidies, as part of our commitment to the G20 and G7 pledges,” he added. The study, which was co-authored by Oil Change International, the International Institute for Sustainable Development and the Natural Resources Defense Council, urged G7 governments to set concrete plans to end fossil fuel subsidies by 2025 as pledged. “What should be a low-hanging fruit in terms of moving public resources away from fossil fuels is not happening, or where it is happening, it’s not happening fast enough,” said the ODI’s Whitley.

Despite climate pledges, rich nations spend $100 billion on fossil fuels

Former Taliban hostage Joshua Boyle, who is facing criminal charges in Canada related to incidents after his release from captivity, was granted bail by an Ontario court on Friday, local media reported.

Boyle, 34, was arrested by Canadian police in December 2017, two months after he was freed, along with his American wife and their three children, and returned to Canada.

The specifics of the accusations against Boyle have not been made public, though he faces 19 charges including assault, sexual assault, forcible confinement and uttering death threats.

The court has imposed a publication ban that prevents media from reporting on the bail proceedings or information that could identify any victims or witnesses.

Boyle and his wife, Caitlan Coleman, were kidnapped in October 2012 while backpacking in Afghanistan. They spent five years in captivity, during which their three children were born.

Boyle said a fourth child had been murdered and his spouse raped after their capture by the Taliban-allied Haqqani network. The Taliban denied the accusations of rape and murder.

The Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) reported from the Ottawa court on Friday that Boyle would be released on several conditions including that he stayed in his parents' home under house arrest and was monitored by GPS ankle bracelet. He must also surrender his passport, the CBC reported.

Joshua Boyle, 34, was arrested by Canadian police in December 2017, two months after he was freed, along with his American wife and their three children, and returned to Canada

Former Taliban hostage Joshua Boyle, who is facing criminal charges in Canada related to incidents after his release from captivity, was granted bail by an Ontario court on Friday, local media reported. Boyle, 34, was arrested by Canadian police in December 2017, two months after he was freed, along with his American wife and their three children, and returned to Canada. The specifics of the accusations against Boyle have not been made public, though he faces 19 charges including assault, sexual assault, forcible confinement and uttering death threats. The court has imposed a publication ban that prevents media from reporting on the bail proceedings or information that could identify any victims or witnesses. Boyle and his wife, Caitlan Coleman, were kidnapped in October 2012 while backpacking in Afghanistan. They spent five years in captivity, during which their three children were born. Boyle said a fourth child had been murdered and his spouse raped after their capture by the Taliban-allied Haqqani network. The Taliban denied the accusations of rape and murder. The Canadian Broadcasting Corp (CBC) reported from the Ottawa court on Friday that Boyle would be released on several conditions including that he stayed in his parents' home under house arrest and was monitored by GPS ankle bracelet. He must also surrender his passport, the CBC reported.

Former Taliban hostage facing criminal charges in Canada granted bail: Report

The EU&nbsp;on Friday&nbsp;launched its first counteroffensive against Washington's punishing steel and aluminium tariffs while the US began meetings in Canada with outraged finance ministers from its top trading partners.

Meanwhile, in Washington, Trump floated the possibility of scrapping the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement in favour of separate bilateral deals with Canada and Mexico.

Brussels and Ottawa filed legal challenges at the World Trade Organization against Washington's decision. The EU, Canada and Mexico also threatened stiff retaliatory tariffs as they pushed back against President Donald Trump's multi-front trade offensive.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said&nbsp;Friday&nbsp;he was dumbfounded by Washington's national security basis for the tariffs, given that US and Canadian troops had fought together in World War II, Afghanistan and elsewhere.

"This is insulting to them," he told NBC News.

British Prime Minister Theresa May said she was "deeply disappointed" and reiterated a call for Britain and the EU to be "permanently exempted" from the "unjustified" metals tariffs.

As the Group of Seven ministerial meeting opened in Canada, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin faced stern reaction from his counterparts, who accused Trump of jeopardizing the world economy with steps that would prove job killers for all concerned.

Canada Finance Minister Bill Morneau said the G7 discussions would be "difficult."

"We are sending the message that these measures are not helpful," he told reporters.

And French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said Europe "will not negotiate with a gun to our heads."

They are joined at the meeting by officials from Britain, Germany, Italy and Japan.

"Unfortunately, we are being treated to a G6 + 1, with the United States squaring off against the rest and risking the economic destabilization of the planet," Le Maire said.

Behind closed doors, according to a European source who spoke on condition of anonymity, Mnuchin said little, choosing not to get into detail and deferring answers to next week's G7 summit when heads of state gather in Quebec, Canada.

Other delegations, however, hammered the points made earlier in public.

Le Maire argued that if Washington itself flouted the rules of international commerce, it would have a harder time convincing China to abide by them.

The US imposed the tariffs in March but gave Canada and the EU -- the biggest sources of foreign aluminium and steel for the US -- a grace period that ended at&nbsp;midnight&nbsp;Thursday.

Trump's decision drew furious responses from Canadian President Justin Trudeau, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The EU is preparing to slap tariffs on US products including bourbon, motorcycles and blue jeans worth up to 2.8 billion euros ($3.3 billion).

"If players in the world don't stick to the rulebook, the system might collapse. That is why we are challenging the US and China at the WTO," EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said.

Macron told Trump in a telephone call that the tariffs were "illegal," and Merkel said the measure "risks touching off spirals of escalation that in the end hurt everyone."

Canada unveiled a package of counter-tariffs on US imports valued at Can$16.6 billion (US$12.8 billion).

And Mexico said it would impose retaliatory duties on a variety of US goods, including steel and a host of agricultural goods, including pork, apples and cheese.

The prospect of a global trade war has roiled financial markets this week even if they were back in positive territory&nbsp;on Friday&nbsp;due to upbeat US economic data.&nbsp;

Berenberg Bank economist Holger Schmieding argued that the direct impact of a US-EU trade war on the world economy would actually be rather small.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, "Trump's contempt for international rules can deal a significant blow to business confidence especially in trade-oriented nations," Schmieding said.

The WTO's former chief, Pascal Lamy, also said the damage would likely be limited in concrete terms.

"We have to keep things in proportion," he said on the French radio station France Info. He estimated that the economic impact of the tariffs would amount to "a very small part of trade flows as a whole."

But others have estimated the impact as up to a full point off global growth if the conflict expands and retaliation goes into effect.

The German carmakers' federation described the imposition of tariffs as "incomprehensible."

"In a connected, global economy, customs barriers don't benefit anyone, including the United States," the VDA federation said.

Germany's carmakers are especially braced for the latest threat from Trump, who earlier this month launched proceedings that could eventually slap 25 per cent tariffs on auto imports.

"I know he has a very particular problem with German cars," warned Malmstrom.

Trump floated the possibility of scrapping the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement in favour of separate bilateral deals with Canada and Mexico

The EU on Friday launched its first counteroffensive against Washington's punishing steel and aluminium tariffs while the US began meetings in Canada with outraged finance ministers from its top trading partners. Meanwhile, in Washington, Trump floated the possibility of scrapping the 24-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement in favour of separate bilateral deals with Canada and Mexico. Brussels and Ottawa filed legal challenges at the World Trade Organization against Washington's decision. The EU, Canada and Mexico also threatened stiff retaliatory tariffs as they pushed back against President Donald Trump's multi-front trade offensive. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Friday he was dumbfounded by Washington's national security basis for the tariffs, given that US and Canadian troops had fought together in World War II, Afghanistan and elsewhere. "This is insulting to them," he told NBC News. British Prime Minister Theresa May said she was "deeply disappointed" and reiterated a call for Britain and the EU to be "permanently exempted" from the "unjustified" metals tariffs. As the Group of Seven ministerial meeting opened in Canada, US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin faced stern reaction from his counterparts, who accused Trump of jeopardizing the world economy with steps that would prove job killers for all concerned. Canada Finance Minister Bill Morneau said the G7 discussions would be "difficult." "We are sending the message that these measures are not helpful," he told reporters. And French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said Europe "will not negotiate with a gun to our heads." They are joined at the meeting by officials from Britain, Germany, Italy and Japan. "Unfortunately, we are being treated to a G6 + 1, with the United States squaring off against the rest and risking the economic destabilization of the planet," Le Maire said. Behind closed doors, according to a European source who spoke on condition of anonymity, Mnuchin said little, choosing not to get into detail and deferring answers to next week's G7 summit when heads of state gather in Quebec, Canada. Other delegations, however, hammered the points made earlier in public. Le Maire argued that if Washington itself flouted the rules of international commerce, it would have a harder time convincing China to abide by them. The US imposed the tariffs in March but gave Canada and the EU -- the biggest sources of foreign aluminium and steel for the US -- a grace period that ended at midnight Thursday. Trump's decision drew furious responses from Canadian President Justin Trudeau, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron. The EU is preparing to slap tariffs on US products including bourbon, motorcycles and blue jeans worth up to 2.8 billion euros ($3.3 billion). "If players in the world don't stick to the rulebook, the system might collapse. That is why we are challenging the US and China at the WTO," EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said. Macron told Trump in a telephone call that the tariffs were "illegal," and Merkel said the measure "risks touching off spirals of escalation that in the end hurt everyone." Canada unveiled a package of counter-tariffs on US imports valued at Can$16.6 billion (US$12.8 billion). And Mexico said it would impose retaliatory duties on a variety of US goods, including steel and a host of agricultural goods, including pork, apples and cheese. The prospect of a global trade war has roiled financial markets this week even if they were back in positive territory on Friday due to upbeat US economic data. Berenberg Bank economist Holger Schmieding argued that the direct impact of a US-EU trade war on the world economy would actually be rather small. Nevertheless, "Trump's contempt for international rules can deal a significant blow to business confidence especially in trade-oriented nations," Schmieding said. The WTO's former chief, Pascal Lamy, also said the damage would likely be limited in concrete terms. "We have to keep things in proportion," he said on the French radio station France Info. He estimated that the economic impact of the tariffs would amount to "a very small part of trade flows as a whole." But others have estimated the impact as up to a full point off global growth if the conflict expands and retaliation goes into effect. The German carmakers' federation described the imposition of tariffs as "incomprehensible." "In a connected, global economy, customs barriers don't benefit anyone, including the United States," the VDA federation said. Germany's carmakers are especially braced for the latest threat from Trump, who earlier this month launched proceedings that could eventually slap 25 per cent tariffs on auto imports. "I know he has a very particular problem with German cars," warned Malmstrom.

European Union joins global battle against Trump tariff onslaught

The United States'&nbspclosest allies attacked the Trump administration on Friday for imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium imports and mounted challenges with the world`s top trade body, fouling the mood at a G7 finance leaders meeting.

US&nbspTreasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was the prime target of the criticism at the meeting of Group of Seven finance ministers and central bank governors in Canada, with the six other G7 member countries subject to the US&nbspmetals tariffs, which were imposed on national security grounds.

Their complaints also complicated US&nbspefforts to gain cooperation to challenge China's trade practices.&nbsp

The European Union and Canada both filed challenges with the World Trade Organization.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said in a statement that the tariffs were "imposed under a false pretext of safeguarding US&nbspnational security."&nbsp

Canada's finance minister, Bill Morneau, told reporters that in a meeting with Mnuchin, "I expressed in strong terms our opposition to these tariffs in the steel and aluminium sector, our absolute view that this is absurd that Canada could in any way be a security risk."

French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said Mnuchin was clearly isolated on the issue, though France, Germany, Japan, Britain, Italy and Canada were trying to talk the Trump administration "back to good reason."

"Unfortunately, we are going to have a G6 plus-one with the United States alone against everyone and running the risk of economic destabilisation," Le Maire told reporters.

British finance minister Philip Hammond told reporters that the US&nbspaction "worries" the G7 members, but he hoped that Friday`s discussions could lay the groundwork for G7 leaders to reach an understanding with President Donald Trump on tariffs next week at the G7 summit in Charlevoix, Quebec

"We know that the president has a very personal style. He likes to deal personally with issues," Hammond said.

Mnuchin, regarded as one of the more moderate trade voices in Trump`s cabinet, took a low profile during the G7 discussion of tariffs but was clearly "isolated," two officials participating in the talks said.

"He said it may need to be solved at the summit level," one of the officials said.

The US&nbsptariffs of 25 per cent on imports of steel and 10 percent on aluminium were imposed early on Friday on Canada, Mexico and the European Union after they refused to accept steel and aluminium quotas in negotiations with US&nbspCommerce Secretary Wilbur Ross.

Trump's Twitter tirade

Trump took to Twitter again on Friday to castigate Canada after his testy exchange with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday over rocky negotiations to update the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Trump tweeted that Canada had treated US&nbspfarmers "very poorly for a very long period of time."

"Highly restrictive on Trade! They must open their markets and take down their trade barriers! They report a really high surplus on trade with us," he wrote. 
 
Later on Friday, Trump told reporters that he might prefer separate trade deals with Canada and Mexico instead of a revamped NAFTA.

The White House said Trump told French President Emmanuel Macron of the need to "rebalance trade with Europe."

Trump's words followed swift responses to the tariffs by Canada, Mexico and the EU, which plan to retaliate with levies on billions of dollars of US&nbspgoods, including orange juice, whiskey, blue jeans and Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

The Harley-Davidson's stock dropped about 1 per cent on Friday, while shares of steelmakers US&nbspSteel and AK Steel both rose 2.2 per cent. The broader stock market rebounded on strong monthly jobs data.

Canada, the largest supplier of steel to the United States, said it will impose tariffs covering C$16.6 billion ($12.8 billion) on US&nbspimports, including whiskey, orange juice, steel, aluminum and other products.

Mexico announced "equivalent" measures on a wide range of US&nbspfarm and industrial products, including pork legs, apples, grapes, cheese, steel and other goods.

The EU plans tariffs on US&nbspexports running the gamut from canoes to "manicure or pedicure preparations."

"We are determined to protect the multilateral system," EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said of the WTO challenge. "We are expecting everybody to play by the rules.

China complications

The complaints came on the eve of a visit by Ross to China to try to secure long-term purchases of US farm and energy commodities to help shrink the US&nbsptrade deficit and avert a looming tariff war between the world`s two largest economies. The

US&nbspteam also wants to secure greater intellectual property protections and an end to Chinese subsidies that have contributed to overproduction of steel and aluminium.

Officials at the G7 meeting said the tariffs made it more difficult for the group to work together to confront China`s trade practices, especially when Beijing, like most G7 members, supports the current World Trade Organization-based trade rules and the United States is seeking to go around them.&nbsp

Le Maire asked Mnuchin, "How can you get the Chinese to respect the international law if you don't?" one meeting participant said.

A US Treasury spokesman was not immediately available to comment on the G7 discussions.

For the EU, a decision on how far to push back will require agreement among the 28 member states that make up the world`s biggest trade bloc.

Germany, by far the biggest exporter to the United States, is keen to avoid a wider trade war, especially as the Trump administration has floated the prospect of tariffs on cars, which would potentially be devastating to German exporters. 
 
Other EU countries such as France favour a more robust stance against what they see as American bullying.&nbsp

The United States' closest allies attacked the Trump administration on Friday for imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium imports and mounted challenges with the world`s top trade body, fouling the mood at a G7 finance leaders meeting

The United States'&nbspclosest allies attacked the Trump administration on Friday for imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium imports and mounted challenges with the world`s top trade body, fouling the mood at a G7 finance leaders meeting. US&nbspTreasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was the prime target of the criticism at the meeting of Group of Seven finance ministers and central bank governors in Canada, with the six other G7 member countries subject to the US&nbspmetals tariffs, which were imposed on national security grounds. Their complaints also complicated US&nbspefforts to gain cooperation to challenge China's trade practices. The European Union and Canada both filed challenges with the World Trade Organization. Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland said in a statement that the tariffs were "imposed under a false pretext of safeguarding US&nbspnational security." Canada's finance minister, Bill Morneau, told reporters that in a meeting with Mnuchin, "I expressed in strong terms our opposition to these tariffs in the steel and aluminium sector, our absolute view that this is absurd that Canada could in any way be a security risk." French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said Mnuchin was clearly isolated on the issue, though France, Germany, Japan, Britain, Italy and Canada were trying to talk the Trump administration "back to good reason." "Unfortunately, we are going to have a G6 plus-one with the United States alone against everyone and running the risk of economic destabilisation," Le Maire told reporters. British finance minister Philip Hammond told reporters that the US&nbspaction "worries" the G7 members, but he hoped that Friday`s discussions could lay the groundwork for G7 leaders to reach an understanding with President Donald Trump on tariffs next week at the G7 summit in Charlevoix, Quebec "We know that the president has a very personal style. He likes to deal personally with issues," Hammond said. Mnuchin, regarded as one of the more moderate trade voices in Trump`s cabinet, took a low profile during the G7 discussion of tariffs but was clearly "isolated," two officials participating in the talks said. "He said it may need to be solved at the summit level," one of the officials said. The US&nbsptariffs of 25 per cent on imports of steel and 10 percent on aluminium were imposed early on Friday on Canada, Mexico and the European Union after they refused to accept steel and aluminium quotas in negotiations with US&nbspCommerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. Trump's Twitter tirade Trump took to Twitter again on Friday to castigate Canada after his testy exchange with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Thursday over rocky negotiations to update the North American Free Trade Agreement. Trump tweeted that Canada had treated US&nbspfarmers "very poorly for a very long period of time." "Highly restrictive on Trade! They must open their markets and take down their trade barriers! They report a really high surplus on trade with us," he wrote. Later on Friday, Trump told reporters that he might prefer separate trade deals with Canada and Mexico instead of a revamped NAFTA. The White House said Trump told French President Emmanuel Macron of the need to "rebalance trade with Europe." Trump's words followed swift responses to the tariffs by Canada, Mexico and the EU, which plan to retaliate with levies on billions of dollars of US&nbspgoods, including orange juice, whiskey, blue jeans and Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The Harley-Davidson's stock dropped about 1 per cent on Friday, while shares of steelmakers US&nbspSteel and AK Steel both rose 2.2 per cent. The broader stock market rebounded on strong monthly jobs data. Canada, the largest supplier of steel to the United States, said it will impose tariffs covering C$16.6 billion ($12.8 billion) on US&nbspimports, including whiskey, orange juice, steel, aluminum and other products. Mexico announced "equivalent" measures on a wide range of US&nbspfarm and industrial products, including pork legs, apples, grapes, cheese, steel and other goods. The EU plans tariffs on US&nbspexports running the gamut from canoes to "manicure or pedicure preparations." "We are determined to protect the multilateral system," EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstrom said of the WTO challenge. "We are expecting everybody to play by the rules. China complications The complaints came on the eve of a visit by Ross to China to try to secure long-term purchases of US farm and energy commodities to help shrink the US&nbsptrade deficit and avert a looming tariff war between the world`s two largest economies. The US&nbspteam also wants to secure greater intellectual property protections and an end to Chinese subsidies that have contributed to overproduction of steel and aluminium. Officials at the G7 meeting said the tariffs made it more difficult for the group to work together to confront China`s trade practices, especially when Beijing, like most G7 members, supports the current World Trade Organization-based trade rules and the United States is seeking to go around them. Le Maire asked Mnuchin, "How can you get the Chinese to respect the international law if you don't?" one meeting participant said. A US Treasury spokesman was not immediately available to comment on the G7 discussions. For the EU, a decision on how far to push back will require agreement among the 28 member states that make up the world`s biggest trade bloc. Germany, by far the biggest exporter to the United States, is keen to avoid a wider trade war, especially as the Trump administration has floated the prospect of tariffs on cars, which would potentially be devastating to German exporters. Other EU countries such as France favour a more robust stance against what they see as American bullying.

US isolated at G7 meeting as tariffs prompt retaliation

India’s largest travelling film festival - Jagran Film Festival, which is in its 9th&nbsp;edition this year,&nbsp;has received movie entries across 116 countries.

The festival has received a total of 3,080 movie entries so far, wherein 967 are from India, 249 from Iran, 243 from the United States, 123 from Spain, 118 from Brazil, 118 from France and 107 from Turkey.&nbsp;

Besides these countries, other participating countries include - Pakistan, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Belgium, Poland, Malaysia and many more.

Scheduled to be inaugurated in New Delhi from&nbsp;June 29th, 2018, the festival invites film entries from filmmakers across several categories.&nbsp;

All the films in the competition sections would be previewed by the pre-selection panels comprising of filmmakers and film critics.&nbsp;

This panel includes names like Shivani Pandey, Sujata Shiven, Vinod Kapoor, Manjula Shirodkar, Sanjay Dattani and Sharad Dutt.

The festival will begin in New Delhi in June this year and will continue to tour in Kanpur, Lucknow, Allahabad, Varanasi, Patna, Dehradun, Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Bhopal, Indore, Gorakhpur, Agra, Ludhiana, Hissar, Meerut, Raipur before concluding in Mumbai in&nbsp;September 2018.

9th edition Jagran Film Festival has incessantly carried the ‘Cinematic Culture’ from metro cities to smaller cities thereby spreading and promoting the appreciation of the cinematic art at the grass root level.&nbsp;

<img alt="ko.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/ko.jpg" width="770" />

<img alt="Untitled design_4.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/Untitled%20design_4.jpg" width="770" />

<img alt="ju_0.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/ju_0.jpg" width="770" />

The festival has already received a total of 3,080 movie entries from around the world

India’s largest travelling film festival - Jagran Film Festival, which is in its 9th edition this year, has received movie entries across 116 countries. The festival has received a total of 3,080 movie entries so far, wherein 967 are from India, 249 from Iran, 243 from the United States, 123 from Spain, 118 from Brazil, 118 from France and 107 from Turkey. Besides these countries, other participating countries include - Pakistan, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Belgium, Poland, Malaysia and many more. Scheduled to be inaugurated in New Delhi from June 29th, 2018, the festival invites film entries from filmmakers across several categories. All the films in the competition sections would be previewed by the pre-selection panels comprising of filmmakers and film critics. This panel includes names like Shivani Pandey, Sujata Shiven, Vinod Kapoor, Manjula Shirodkar, Sanjay Dattani and Sharad Dutt. The festival will begin in New Delhi in June this year and will continue to tour in Kanpur, Lucknow, Allahabad, Varanasi, Patna, Dehradun, Ranchi, Jamshedpur, Bhopal, Indore, Gorakhpur, Agra, Ludhiana, Hissar, Meerut, Raipur before concluding in Mumbai in September 2018. 9th edition Jagran Film Festival has incessantly carried the ‘Cinematic Culture’ from metro cities to smaller cities thereby spreading and promoting the appreciation of the cinematic art at the grass root level.

India’s largest travelling film festival, Jagran to kickstart in June this year

The United States Department of Commerce on Thursday announced that a temporary exemption from US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from the European Union, Canada and Mexico would be allowed to expire, a decision that is likely to further exacerbate trade tensions and trigger retaliatory measures.

Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross told reporters on a telephone briefing on Thursday that a 25 per cent tariff on steel imports and a 10 per cent tariff on aluminium imports from the EU, Canada and Mexico would go into effect at midnight on Friday.

"We look forward to continued negotiations, both with Canada and Mexico on the one hand and with the European Commission on the other hand, because there are other issues that we also need to get resolved," he said.

Ross told reporters that talks with Canada and Mexico over revising the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) were "taking longer than we had hoped."

Talks with Europe had "made some progress" but not enough for additional exemptions, he said in a conference call from Paris.

'Bad day for world trade'&nbsp

European Commission President Jean Claude-Juncker responded to the announcement, saying the EU will impose countermeasures on the US.&nbsp

"This is a bad day for world trade," Juncker said in a speech in Brussels.&nbsp

"So, we will immediately introduce a settlement dispute with the WTO [World Trade Organisation] and will announce counterbalancing measures in the coming hours," he added.&nbsp

"It is totally unacceptable that a country is imposing unilateral measures when it comes to world trade."&nbsp

Mexico reaction

Mexico retaliated with "equivalent" measures on the farm and industrial products, targeting pork legs, apples, grapes and cheeses as well as steel.

Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo said the tit-for-tat measures would complicate talks between the United States, Canada and Mexico to revamp the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) that underpins trade between the neighbours.&nbsp

Wall Street slips

The S&P 500 packaged foods and meats index dipped 2.3 per cent with all its 10 components in the red. Kraft Heinz and Mondelez were the biggest lags on the index.

The S&P Composite 1500 Steel index rose 0.3 per cent, led by gains in AK Steel and US Steel although it pared early gains after Mexico`s retaliation. 
Shares of Boeing slipped 1.3 per cent and Caterpillar declined 1.9 per cent, dragging down the Dow Jones Industrials.

"The market is worried about retaliation, they are looking for what would come from the EU side," said Zhiwei Ren, managing director and portfolio manager at Penn Mutual Asset Management in Horsham, Pennsylvania. 
"But this is another negotiation tactic on the U.S. side and they want to use tariffs as a bargaining tool for other negotiations."

(With inputs from Agencies)

US stocks fell on Thursday after the United States moved to impose metal tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico and the European Union, prompting a tit-for-tat response from some of its trading partners.

The United States Department of Commerce on Thursday announced that a temporary exemption from US tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from the European Union, Canada and Mexico would be allowed to expire, a decision that is likely to further exacerbate trade tensions and trigger retaliatory measures. Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross told reporters on a telephone briefing on Thursday that a 25 per cent tariff on steel imports and a 10 per cent tariff on aluminium imports from the EU, Canada and Mexico would go into effect at midnight on Friday. "We look forward to continued negotiations, both with Canada and Mexico on the one hand and with the European Commission on the other hand, because there are other issues that we also need to get resolved," he said. Ross told reporters that talks with Canada and Mexico over revising the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) were "taking longer than we had hoped." Talks with Europe had "made some progress" but not enough for additional exemptions, he said in a conference call from Paris. 'Bad day for world trade' European Commission President Jean Claude-Juncker responded to the announcement, saying the EU will impose countermeasures on the US. "This is a bad day for world trade," Juncker said in a speech in Brussels. "So, we will immediately introduce a settlement dispute with the WTO [World Trade Organisation] and will announce counterbalancing measures in the coming hours," he added. "It is totally unacceptable that a country is imposing unilateral measures when it comes to world trade." Mexico reaction Mexico retaliated with "equivalent" measures on the farm and industrial products, targeting pork legs, apples, grapes and cheeses as well as steel. Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo said the tit-for-tat measures would complicate talks between the United States, Canada and Mexico to revamp the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) that underpins trade between the neighbours. Wall Street slips The S&P 500 packaged foods and meats index dipped 2.3 per cent with all its 10 components in the red. Kraft Heinz and Mondelez were the biggest lags on the index. The S&P Composite 1500 Steel index rose 0.3 per cent, led by gains in AK Steel and US Steel although it pared early gains after Mexico`s retaliation. Shares of Boeing slipped 1.3 per cent and Caterpillar declined 1.9 per cent, dragging down the Dow Jones Industrials. "The market is worried about retaliation, they are looking for what would come from the EU side," said Zhiwei Ren, managing director and portfolio manager at Penn Mutual Asset Management in Horsham, Pennsylvania. "But this is another negotiation tactic on the U.S. side and they want to use tariffs as a bargaining tool for other negotiations." (With inputs from Agencies)

US hits EU, Mexico and Canada with steel, aluminium tariffs

The Canadian Grand Prix could determine whether Red Bull decide to stick with Renault, who powered them to all their Formula One championships, or switch to Honda engines from next season.

Team boss Christian Horner said after Sunday`s Monaco Grand Prix, won by his Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo, that a decision would have to be made by "end of June, beginning of July".

"We`re waiting with great interest to see the relative performance of engines in Montreal in two weeks` time," he added.

Canada, on June 10, is the seventh round of the 21-race season and both manufacturers are planning to bring major upgrades to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve.

Red Bull, whose Renault engines are branded Tag Heuer, have won twice this season but have had a rocky relationship with the French company since the start of the V6 turbo hybrid era in 2014.

Honda are working with Red Bull-owned Toro Rosso and have improved the performance of their engine notably since the termination of a three year partnership with McLaren.

While Ricciardo is third overall in the championship, he has suffered reliability problems -- as well as a costly crash with team mate Max Verstappen -- and is 38 points off Mercedes` leader Lewis Hamilton.

The Australian is out of contract at the end of the season and is also waiting to see what engine Red Bull go for.

"First thing is get the engine sorted and then very much follow on from there with driver," said Horner.

"I think we`ve had a great chassis from the first race, to be honest," he added. "Our problem has always been on Saturdays... if we can improve our Saturdays, then our races will be competitive.&nbsp

"If we could just get a little bit more at the end of Q3 (the final phase of qualifying) on peak power, there`s no reason why we shouldn`t be able to give Ferrari and Mercedes regularly a hard time."

Ricciardo started on pole position in Monaco on Sunday, the team`s first in two years, and won despite having a power unit problem from lap 28.

Verstappen set the fastest race lap, the fourth time in six grands prix that Red Bull have done that.&nbsp

"The FIA understand the situation we`re in and there`s no hard and fast deadline," said Horner of the engine decision.&nbsp

Renault have previously said they would need to know by the end of May because of the long lead times involved in manufacturing.

Red Bull, whose Renault engines are branded Tag Heuer, have won twice this season

The Canadian Grand Prix could determine whether Red Bull decide to stick with Renault, who powered them to all their Formula One championships, or switch to Honda engines from next season. Team boss Christian Horner said after Sunday`s Monaco Grand Prix, won by his Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo, that a decision would have to be made by "end of June, beginning of July". "We`re waiting with great interest to see the relative performance of engines in Montreal in two weeks` time," he added. Canada, on June 10, is the seventh round of the 21-race season and both manufacturers are planning to bring major upgrades to the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. Red Bull, whose Renault engines are branded Tag Heuer, have won twice this season but have had a rocky relationship with the French company since the start of the V6 turbo hybrid era in 2014. Honda are working with Red Bull-owned Toro Rosso and have improved the performance of their engine notably since the termination of a three year partnership with McLaren. While Ricciardo is third overall in the championship, he has suffered reliability problems -- as well as a costly crash with team mate Max Verstappen -- and is 38 points off Mercedes` leader Lewis Hamilton. The Australian is out of contract at the end of the season and is also waiting to see what engine Red Bull go for. "First thing is get the engine sorted and then very much follow on from there with driver," said Horner. "I think we`ve had a great chassis from the first race, to be honest," he added. "Our problem has always been on Saturdays... if we can improve our Saturdays, then our races will be competitive. "If we could just get a little bit more at the end of Q3 (the final phase of qualifying) on peak power, there`s no reason why we shouldn`t be able to give Ferrari and Mercedes regularly a hard time." Ricciardo started on pole position in Monaco on Sunday, the team`s first in two years, and won despite having a power unit problem from lap 28. Verstappen set the fastest race lap, the fourth time in six grands prix that Red Bull have done that. "The FIA understand the situation we`re in and there`s no hard and fast deadline," said Horner of the engine decision. Renault have previously said they would need to know by the end of May because of the long lead times involved in manufacturing.

Canada could be key for Red Bull's engine decision

The Canadian police on Friday said that the<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/two-men-set-off-bomb-in-a-restaurant-in-canada-15-wounded-139679#photo-139667"> bomb explosion in an Indian restaurant</a>, which injured 15, did not seem to be terror-linked or a hate crime.

Police are still looking for two unidentified men who walked into the restaurant on Thursday evening in the Canadian city of Mississauga and detonated the bomb.

According to initial media reports, at least 15 people have been injured out of which three are in critical conditions.

The blast occurred in The Bombay Bhel restaurant in Mississauga.

According to a report by Reuters, the bomb was set off by two unidentified men.

The two male suspects went into the restaurant and detonated their improvised explosive device, Peel Regional Police said in a Tweet. The men then fled.

No one has claimed the responsibility for the attack by now.

Police are still looking for two unidentified men who walked into the restaurant on Thursday evening in the Canadian city of Mississauga and detonated the bomb.

The Canadian police on Friday said that the bomb explosion in an Indian restaurant, which injured 15, did not seem to be terror-linked or a hate crime. Police are still looking for two unidentified men who walked into the restaurant on Thursday evening in the Canadian city of Mississauga and detonated the bomb. According to initial media reports, at least 15 people have been injured out of which three are in critical conditions. The blast occurred in The Bombay Bhel restaurant in Mississauga. According to a report by Reuters, the bomb was set off by two unidentified men. The two male suspects went into the restaurant and detonated their improvised explosive device, Peel Regional Police said in a Tweet. The men then fled. No one has claimed the responsibility for the attack by now.

No indication Canada restaurant blast was terror or hate crime: Police

A Canadian Sikh minister was asked to take off his turban at a Detroit airport during a security check despite passing through the metal detector without any problem, prompting senior US officials to apologise, media reports have said.

Navdeep Bains, Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, described the incident in an interview with the French-language paper La Presse on Thursday.

Bains was returning to Toronto after meetings with Michigan state leaders in April 2017 and had already passed through regular security checks at the Detroit Metro Airport, but because he was wearing a turban, a security agent told him that he would have to undergo additional checks, according to La Presse.

"He told me to take off my turban. I asked him why I would have to take off my turban when the metal detector had worked properly," the minister said.

The US amended its travel policy in 2007, allowing Sikhs to keep turbans on while passing during the security inspection process.

Bains said that when he travels, he rarely discloses his identity as a cabinet minister, in order to better understand the travel experiences - and frustrations - of people not afforded similar privileges.

The incident prompted Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland to express disappointment to her US counterparts.

Both undersecretaries for the US homeland security and transportation departments apologised for the incident.

In a statement to CBC, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration said it reviewed closed-circuit video of the incident and determined the officer did not follow standard operating procedures the officer subsequently received additional training.

Navdeep Bains, Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, described the incident in an interview with the French-language paper La Presse on Thursday

A Canadian Sikh minister was asked to take off his turban at a Detroit airport during a security check despite passing through the metal detector without any problem, prompting senior US officials to apologise, media reports have said. Navdeep Bains, Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, described the incident in an interview with the French-language paper La Presse on Thursday. Bains was returning to Toronto after meetings with Michigan state leaders in April 2017 and had already passed through regular security checks at the Detroit Metro Airport, but because he was wearing a turban, a security agent told him that he would have to undergo additional checks, according to La Presse. "He told me to take off my turban. I asked him why I would have to take off my turban when the metal detector had worked properly," the minister said. The US amended its travel policy in 2007, allowing Sikhs to keep turbans on while passing during the security inspection process. Bains said that when he travels, he rarely discloses his identity as a cabinet minister, in order to better understand the travel experiences - and frustrations - of people not afforded similar privileges. The incident prompted Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland to express disappointment to her US counterparts. Both undersecretaries for the US homeland security and transportation departments apologised for the incident. In a statement to CBC, a spokesperson for the Transportation Security Administration said it reviewed closed-circuit video of the incident and determined the officer did not follow standard operating procedures the officer subsequently received additional training.

Canada Sikh minister asked to remove turban at US airport

&nbsp;US&nbsp;President Donald Trump has postponed the imposition of steel and aluminum tariffs on Canada, the European Union and Mexico until June 1, and has reached agreements for permanent exemptions for Argentina, Australia and Brazil, the White House said on Monday.

The decisions came just hours before temporary exemptions from the tariffs on these countries were set to expire at 12:01 a.m. (0401 GMT) on Tuesday.

In a statement, the White House said that the details of the deals with Brazil, Argentina and Australia would be finalized shortly, and it did not disclose terms.

"The administration is also extending negotiations with Canada, Mexico, and the European Union for a final 30 days. In all of these negotiations, the administration is focused on quotas that will restrain imports, prevent transshipment, and protect the national security," the White House added.

A source familiar with the decision said that there would be no further extensions beyond June 1 to stave off tariffs.

Trump on March 23 imposed a 25 percent tariff on steel imports and a 10 percent tariff on aluminum in March, but granted temporary exemptions to Canada, Mexico, Brazil, the EU, Australia and Argentina. He also has granted a permanent exemption on steel tariffs to South Korea.

Trump has invoked a 1962 trade law to erect protections for US&nbsp;steel and aluminum producers on national security grounds, amid a worldwide glut of both metals that is largely blamed on excess production in China.

The tariffs, which have increased frictions with US&nbsp;trading partners worldwide and have prompted several challenges before the World Trade Organization, are aimed at allowing the two US&nbsp;metals industries to increase their capacity utilization rates above 80 percent for the first time in years.

Trump administration officials have said that in lieu of tariffs, steel- and aluminum-exporting countries would have to agree to quotas designed to achieve similar protections for US&nbsp;producers.

The terms agreed by Brazil, Argentina and Australia to escape the US&nbsp;tariffs were unclear. South Korea earned its permanent exemption from steel tariffs by agreeing to quotas that will cut its steel shipments by about 30 percent from 2017 levels. Seoul is still subject to US&nbsp;aluminum tariffs.

The White House said the agreements reflect administration efforts "to reach fair outcomes with allies to protect our national security and address global challenges to the steel and aluminum industries."

Todd Leebow, president of Majestic Steel USA, a Cleveland-based distributor of domestic steel products, said American steelmakers needed certainty that import protections won't be eroded.

"We're hopeful this extension moves us toward the most productive path for our domestic steel industry -- the tariffs President Trump announced earlier this year and a quota system to limit the amount of imports flooding our country," Leebow said in a statement.

But Canada, Mexico and the European Union have all insisted that they will not accept quotas to gain permanent exemptions from the US&nbsp;tariffs.

A British government spokeswoman in Washington said the extension for the EU was "positive," but the UK steel and aluminum industries needed safeguarding.

"We remain concerned about the impact of these tariffs on global trade and will continue to work with the EU on a multilateral solution to the global problem of overcapacity, as well as to manage the impact on domestic markets."

Negotiations over US&nbsp;steel and aluminum tariff exemptions for Canada and Mexico have also become intertwined with intensified talks to reach an agreement to update the North American Free Trade Agreement.

Canada is the largest steel exporter to the United States, and its industry is highly integrated with that of its southern neighbor, with raw materials and finished steel crisscrossing the Great Lakes region.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday that any move by the United States to impose tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum would be a "very bad idea" guaranteed to disrupt trade between the two countries.

If the EU is subject to tariffs on the 6.4 billion euros ($7.7 billion) of the metals it exports annually to the United States, it has said it will set its own duties on 2.8 billion euros of US&nbsp;exports of products ranging from makeup to motorcycles.

Trump imposed a 25 percent tariff on steel imports and a 10 percent tariff on aluminium in March

US President Donald Trump has postponed the imposition of steel and aluminum tariffs on Canada, the European Union and Mexico until June 1, and has reached agreements for permanent exemptions for Argentina, Australia and Brazil, the White House said on Monday. The decisions came just hours before temporary exemptions from the tariffs on these countries were set to expire at 12:01 a.m. (0401 GMT) on Tuesday. In a statement, the White House said that the details of the deals with Brazil, Argentina and Australia would be finalized shortly, and it did not disclose terms. "The administration is also extending negotiations with Canada, Mexico, and the European Union for a final 30 days. In all of these negotiations, the administration is focused on quotas that will restrain imports, prevent transshipment, and protect the national security," the White House added. A source familiar with the decision said that there would be no further extensions beyond June 1 to stave off tariffs. Trump on March 23 imposed a 25 percent tariff on steel imports and a 10 percent tariff on aluminum in March, but granted temporary exemptions to Canada, Mexico, Brazil, the EU, Australia and Argentina. He also has granted a permanent exemption on steel tariffs to South Korea. Trump has invoked a 1962 trade law to erect protections for US steel and aluminum producers on national security grounds, amid a worldwide glut of both metals that is largely blamed on excess production in China. The tariffs, which have increased frictions with US trading partners worldwide and have prompted several challenges before the World Trade Organization, are aimed at allowing the two US metals industries to increase their capacity utilization rates above 80 percent for the first time in years. Trump administration officials have said that in lieu of tariffs, steel- and aluminum-exporting countries would have to agree to quotas designed to achieve similar protections for US producers. The terms agreed by Brazil, Argentina and Australia to escape the US tariffs were unclear. South Korea earned its permanent exemption from steel tariffs by agreeing to quotas that will cut its steel shipments by about 30 percent from 2017 levels. Seoul is still subject to US aluminum tariffs. The White House said the agreements reflect administration efforts "to reach fair outcomes with allies to protect our national security and address global challenges to the steel and aluminum industries." Todd Leebow, president of Majestic Steel USA, a Cleveland-based distributor of domestic steel products, said American steelmakers needed certainty that import protections won't be eroded. "We're hopeful this extension moves us toward the most productive path for our domestic steel industry -- the tariffs President Trump announced earlier this year and a quota system to limit the amount of imports flooding our country," Leebow said in a statement. But Canada, Mexico and the European Union have all insisted that they will not accept quotas to gain permanent exemptions from the US tariffs. A British government spokeswoman in Washington said the extension for the EU was "positive," but the UK steel and aluminum industries needed safeguarding. "We remain concerned about the impact of these tariffs on global trade and will continue to work with the EU on a multilateral solution to the global problem of overcapacity, as well as to manage the impact on domestic markets." Negotiations over US steel and aluminum tariff exemptions for Canada and Mexico have also become intertwined with intensified talks to reach an agreement to update the North American Free Trade Agreement. Canada is the largest steel exporter to the United States, and its industry is highly integrated with that of its southern neighbor, with raw materials and finished steel crisscrossing the Great Lakes region. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday that any move by the United States to impose tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum would be a "very bad idea" guaranteed to disrupt trade between the two countries. If the EU is subject to tariffs on the 6.4 billion euros ($7.7 billion) of the metals it exports annually to the United States, it has said it will set its own duties on 2.8 billion euros of US exports of products ranging from makeup to motorcycles.

Trump postpones steel tariff decision for Canada, EU, Mexico

Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said on Saturday the country will send a military patrol aircraft to monitor North Korean vessels suspected of transferring prohibited goods in defiance of United Nations sanctions.

Canada also plans to deploy patrol aircraft for such activities, and surveillance planes from both countries will be based in the US&nbspmilitary's Kadena air base on Japan's southern island of Okinawa, the Japanese government said in a separate statement.

The announcements came a day after the leaders of North and South Korea pledged at an historic summit to work for the complete denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula.

However, US&nbspPresident Donald Trump, who is also set to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said he would maintain pressure on Pyongyang through sanctions that were imposed in a bid to rein in the North's missile and nuclear programmes.

Australia, a staunch US&nbspally, also promised to keep up economic and diplomatic pressure on North Korea.

"We do have a P-8A surveillance aircraft that is going to be working in the region to monitor compliance with sanctions, and that is part of our collaboration with our partners in that exercise to enforce those UN&nbspsanctions," Turnbull said, speaking during a televised news conference.

"What has been occurring is that sanctions have been evaded by transferring materials from ship to ship...to add to the surveillance of the area enables that to be identified and then, of course, those who are a party to that to be held responsible and brought to account."

Turnbull and Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said pressure had to be kept on North Korea to ensure the Korean peninsula was denuclearised.

The move by Australia and Canada to deploy patrol aircraft comes after a British warship arrived in Japan this month to join efforts to police UN&nbspsanctions imposed on North Korea over its nuclear and missile programmes.

"Japan welcomes these (surveillance) activities from the view point of upholding the maximum pressure on North Korea while maintaining the solidarity of the international community," the Japanese government said in a statement, referring to the moves by Australia, Canada and Britain.

Senior US&nbspofficials said in February the Trump administration and key Asian allies were preparing to expand interceptions of ships suspected of violating the sanctions on North Korea. The strategy called for closer tracking of ships suspected of carrying banned weapons components and other prohibited cargo to and from North Korea.

The announcements came a day after the leaders of North and South Korea pledged at an historic summit to work for the complete denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula

Australia's Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said on Saturday the country will send a military patrol aircraft to monitor North Korean vessels suspected of transferring prohibited goods in defiance of United Nations sanctions. Canada also plans to deploy patrol aircraft for such activities, and surveillance planes from both countries will be based in the US&nbspmilitary's Kadena air base on Japan's southern island of Okinawa, the Japanese government said in a separate statement. The announcements came a day after the leaders of North and South Korea pledged at an historic summit to work for the complete denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula. However, US&nbspPresident Donald Trump, who is also set to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said he would maintain pressure on Pyongyang through sanctions that were imposed in a bid to rein in the North's missile and nuclear programmes. Australia, a staunch US&nbspally, also promised to keep up economic and diplomatic pressure on North Korea. "We do have a P-8A surveillance aircraft that is going to be working in the region to monitor compliance with sanctions, and that is part of our collaboration with our partners in that exercise to enforce those UN&nbspsanctions," Turnbull said, speaking during a televised news conference. "What has been occurring is that sanctions have been evaded by transferring materials from ship to ship...to add to the surveillance of the area enables that to be identified and then, of course, those who are a party to that to be held responsible and brought to account." Turnbull and Foreign Minister Julie Bishop said pressure had to be kept on North Korea to ensure the Korean peninsula was denuclearised. The move by Australia and Canada to deploy patrol aircraft comes after a British warship arrived in Japan this month to join efforts to police UN&nbspsanctions imposed on North Korea over its nuclear and missile programmes. "Japan welcomes these (surveillance) activities from the view point of upholding the maximum pressure on North Korea while maintaining the solidarity of the international community," the Japanese government said in a statement, referring to the moves by Australia, Canada and Britain. Senior US&nbspofficials said in February the Trump administration and key Asian allies were preparing to expand interceptions of ships suspected of violating the sanctions on North Korea. The strategy called for closer tracking of ships suspected of carrying banned weapons components and other prohibited cargo to and from North Korea.

Australia, Canada to send military aircraft to monitor North Korean ships

United States President Donald Trump has tweeted in support of the joint North American bid to host FIFA World Cup 2026. He said, "The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup." Previously the US hosted football World Cup in 1994. For FIFA 2026, North American bid boasts large stadiums and excellent infrastructure.

Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid. Other than the North American joint bid, Morocco is the only strong rival which can stand against them.

On Thursday, Trump tweeted, "It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?"

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup. It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/989650212380692480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It is&nbsp;expected that Morocco might receive strong backing from FIFA's African and Middle East countries.

On June 13 in Moscow, The FIFA Congress will meet to select the 2026 host. A majority of the 207 voting FIFA members is needed to decide. Member countries might also&nbsp;pick neither bid, which would lead to the host process being reopened.

FIFA member countries receive one vote each, no matter their size, which gives disproportionate influence to small soccer nations.

FIFA 2026 will be the 23rd edition of football World Cup. The upcoming edition is scheduled to take place in June 2018 in Russia.

Donald Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid to host football World Cup 2026

United States President Donald Trump has tweeted in support of the joint North American bid to host FIFA World Cup 2026. He said, "The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup." Previously the US hosted football World Cup in 1994. For FIFA 2026, North American bid boasts large stadiums and excellent infrastructure. Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid. Other than the North American joint bid, Morocco is the only strong rival which can stand against them. On Thursday, Trump tweeted, "It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?" The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup. It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)? — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 26, 2018 × It is expected that Morocco might receive strong backing from FIFA's African and Middle East countries. On June 13 in Moscow, The FIFA Congress will meet to select the 2026 host. A majority of the 207 voting FIFA members is needed to decide. Member countries might also pick neither bid, which would lead to the host process being reopened. FIFA member countries receive one vote each, no matter their size, which gives disproportionate influence to small soccer nations. FIFA 2026 will be the 23rd edition of football World Cup. The upcoming edition is scheduled to take place in June 2018 in Russia.

Trump threatens countries who don't support North American joint bid for FIFA 2026

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