India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed".

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country. It is also best that diplomatic conversations are not misrepresented for political purposes."

Speaking at the Gurpurab event, the Canadian PM said he is "concerned" about the protest and has raised the matter with Indian authorities.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-farmers-being-misled-calls-new-laws-historic-agriculture-reform-346468" hreflang="en">PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'</a>

"The news coming out of India, about the protest by farmers, the situation is concerning. We are all worried about families and friends..," the PM said.

"Let me remind you, Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue, that is why we have reached out through multiple means, directly to Indian authorities, to highlight concerns," he added.

While some MP from the UK has also spoken about it, Justin Trudeau is the first world leader to make such public remarks about the ongoing protests by farmers, drawing criticism. Canada has a huge Indian diaspora, substantially from the northern Indian state of Punjab.

India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed". Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country.

India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed". Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country. It is also best that diplomatic conversations are not misrepresented for political purposes." Speaking at the Gurpurab event, the Canadian PM said he is "concerned" about the protest and has raised the matter with Indian authorities. Also read| PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform' "The news coming out of India, about the protest by farmers, the situation is concerning. We are all worried about families and friends..," the PM said. "Let me remind you, Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue, that is why we have reached out through multiple means, directly to Indian authorities, to highlight concerns," he added. While some MP from the UK has also spoken about it, Justin Trudeau is the first world leader to make such public remarks about the ongoing protests by farmers, drawing criticism. Canada has a huge Indian diaspora, substantially from the northern Indian state of Punjab.

India slams Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's 'Ill-informed' comments on farmer protests

Canada plans to impose a tax on corporations providing digital services from 2022 that will stay in place until major nations come up with a coordinated approach on taxation, the Finance Department said on Monday.

The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development is working on a common approach to ensure digital behemoths, such as Alphabet Inc’s Google and Facebook Inc, pay their share of taxes as the coronavirus hammers budgets.

Canada said it was concerned about a delay in reaching an agreement. The threat of digital services taxes has prompted threats of trade retaliation from outgoing U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.

The new tax would come into effect on Jan. 1, 2022, and remain in place until a common approach is agreed upon. The measure would raise federal revenues by C$3.4 billion ($2.6 billion) over five years, starting in the 2021-22 fiscal year.

“Canadians want a tax system that is fair, where everyone pays their fair share,” Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland told legislators in the fall economic update.

“Canada will act unilaterally, if necessary, to apply a tax on large multinational digital corporations, so they pay their fair share just like any other company operating in Canada.”

More details are due in next year’s budget.

Foreign-based vendors with no physical presence in Canada will also have to start collecting sales taxes on products such as mobile apps, online video gaming and streaming. The measure should raise C$1.2 billion over five years.

Ottawa also plans to oblige people renting out short-term accommodation to charge sales taxes, saying popular digital rental platforms do not currently have to impose the taxes.&nbsp;

That puts hotels at a disadvantage, it added.

The government is also clamping down on the award of stock options to prevent “high-income individuals employed at large, long-established, mature firms” from taking unfair advantage.

From now on, a C$200,000 annual limit will apply to stock option grants for those people. Ottawa did not provide a definition of high-income individuals or mature firms.

The rules will not apply to startups or emerging companies, which often cannot afford to pay competitive salaries and instead offer stock options. The new rules will generate about C$200 million in federal revenues, the Finance Department said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Canada plans to impose a tax on corporations providing digital services from 2022 that will stay in place until major nations come up with a coordinated approach on taxation, the Finance Department said on Monday.

Canada plans to impose a tax on corporations providing digital services from 2022 that will stay in place until major nations come up with a coordinated approach on taxation, the Finance Department said on Monday. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development is working on a common approach to ensure digital behemoths, such as Alphabet Inc’s Google and Facebook Inc, pay their share of taxes as the coronavirus hammers budgets. Canada said it was concerned about a delay in reaching an agreement. The threat of digital services taxes has prompted threats of trade retaliation from outgoing U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. The new tax would come into effect on Jan. 1, 2022, and remain in place until a common approach is agreed upon. The measure would raise federal revenues by C$3.4 billion ($2.6 billion) over five years, starting in the 2021-22 fiscal year. “Canadians want a tax system that is fair, where everyone pays their fair share,” Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland told legislators in the fall economic update. “Canada will act unilaterally, if necessary, to apply a tax on large multinational digital corporations, so they pay their fair share just like any other company operating in Canada.” More details are due in next year’s budget. Foreign-based vendors with no physical presence in Canada will also have to start collecting sales taxes on products such as mobile apps, online video gaming and streaming. The measure should raise C$1.2 billion over five years. Ottawa also plans to oblige people renting out short-term accommodation to charge sales taxes, saying popular digital rental platforms do not currently have to impose the taxes. That puts hotels at a disadvantage, it added. The government is also clamping down on the award of stock options to prevent “high-income individuals employed at large, long-established, mature firms” from taking unfair advantage. From now on, a C$200,000 annual limit will apply to stock option grants for those people. Ottawa did not provide a definition of high-income individuals or mature firms. The rules will not apply to startups or emerging companies, which often cannot afford to pay competitive salaries and instead offer stock options. The new rules will generate about C$200 million in federal revenues, the Finance Department said. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada plans digital tax in 2022 on global tech giants such as Facebook, Google

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced on Friday that the majority people of his country will surely receive the coronavirus vaccine by the month of September next year.

"The fact that the doctors highlighted that if all goes according to plan, we should be able to have a majority of Canadians vaccinated by next September… puts us in very good stead," he was quoted by local media.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/too-salty-canadian-officials-ask-residents-not-to-let-moose-lick-their-cars-344833">Too salty: Canadian officials ask residents not to let moose lick their cars</a>

"Vaccines are on the horizon. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel.," he added.

However,&nbsp;Canada's deputy chief public health officer Dr Howard Njoo cautioned the public that their Prime Minister was choosing to see the glass half full. Explaining the situation, he said, "With the approval, perhaps, of these two vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna, perhaps we’re looking at delivery of some six million doses in January and February."

He added that while the Prime Minister is declaring the vaccine availability in the month of September, it can be stretched till December too, depending on the situation. "If the prime minister set September out there as an objective, that’s fine because we’re continuing to work hard to be able to offer vaccination to the majority of Canadians. So if it’s September or December, for me, it’s just a matter of months."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/frankfurt-airport-prepares-to-transport-covid-19-vaccine-346008" hreflang="en">Frankfurt Airport prepares to transport COVID-19 vaccine</a>

Trudeau also informed people that his government has already purchased freezers to store the vaccines which will help in transporting the vaccine to the disconnected areas from the main cities, and also in the areas where the&nbsp;native populations reside.

The announcement came as Canada recorded a total of&nbsp;358,741 coronavirus cases, taking the death toll to&nbsp;11,894 till date.

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced on Friday that the majority people of his country will surely receive the coronavirus vaccine by the month of September next year.

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced on Friday that the majority people of his country will surely receive the coronavirus vaccine by the month of September next year. "The fact that the doctors highlighted that if all goes according to plan, we should be able to have a majority of Canadians vaccinated by next September… puts us in very good stead," he was quoted by local media. Also read| Too salty: Canadian officials ask residents not to let moose lick their cars "Vaccines are on the horizon. There’s a light at the end of the tunnel.," he added. However, Canada's deputy chief public health officer Dr Howard Njoo cautioned the public that their Prime Minister was choosing to see the glass half full. Explaining the situation, he said, "With the approval, perhaps, of these two vaccines, Pfizer and Moderna, perhaps we’re looking at delivery of some six million doses in January and February." He added that while the Prime Minister is declaring the vaccine availability in the month of September, it can be stretched till December too, depending on the situation. "If the prime minister set September out there as an objective, that’s fine because we’re continuing to work hard to be able to offer vaccination to the majority of Canadians. So if it’s September or December, for me, it’s just a matter of months." Also read| Frankfurt Airport prepares to transport COVID-19 vaccine Trudeau also informed people that his government has already purchased freezers to store the vaccines which will help in transporting the vaccine to the disconnected areas from the main cities, and also in the areas where the native populations reside. The announcement came as Canada recorded a total of 358,741 coronavirus cases, taking the death toll to 11,894 till date.

'Light at the end of the tunnel': Justin Trudeau promises COVID-19 vaccine by September

Along the frosty coast of Hudson Bay, hundreds of polar bears have been wandering for weeks, waiting for the wintertime sea ice to form so they can return to hunting ringed seals. Until then, they represent a danger to the 900 people living in nearby Churchill - a remote, sub-Arctic town in Canada famous for the visiting carnivores. The town is working on a plan to prevent conflicts between hungry bears and humans, using a new radar system that can watch and warn when a bear approaches and do so in a snowstorm and during the dead of night.

Bear-spotting radar tracks polar bears migrating to the Arctic sea ice

In a first, officials of Jasper, a town in Canada's Alberta province, are urging local residents to not let the wild moose lick the passing cars.

Local authorities of Jasper have put up flashing signs on the sides of the roads that read, "Do not let moose lick your car", urging cars and motorists passing by to resist letting moose indulge in the temptation.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-largest-city-toronto-to-be-on-covid-19-lockdown-starting-monday-344523">Canada's largest city Toronto to be on COVID-19 lockdown starting Monday</a>

The sign has been put up to make sure that the moose do not get habitual to being around cars and motorcycles in the area, as this poses a threat to the residents using the road, as well as the moose. Officials believe being around speeding cars can be dangerous for moose, and since moose are, sometimes, unpredictable, they can charge at the passing-by vehicles, posing a risk to residents' safety.

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Oh hi, moose. We have strict instructions about your snack habits. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/jasper?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#jasper</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Alberta?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Alberta</a> 🇨🇦 <a href="https://t.co/xSNo7YBrXS">pic.twitter.com/xSNo7YBrXS</a>
— Carolyn Campbell (@_CLCampbell) <a href="https://twitter.com/_CLCampbell/status/1327766418109079557?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As per experts, Moose are obsessed with salt as it is one of the important minerals they need in their body. They usually get their daily intake from salt lakes in the park, but they get tempted to lick off the ice salt from the cars.

Onlookers usually park their cars along the roads waiting to catch a glimpse of the moose, who appear from time to time. Experts believe this can get Moose habitual to having cars around. "Moose and cars are not a good mix. If you hit the moose with your car, you take the legs out from under it and it's going through your windshield,"&nbsp;Jasper National Park spokesman Steve Young told a media house.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/thanksgiving-day-2020-why-does-canada-celebrate-thanksgiving-day-before-us-344303">Why does Canada celebrate Thanksgiving Day before US</a>

Experts are urging people to drive away when they see moose arriving towards their vehicles, or softly blow the horn to scare the moose away.

"We've been seeing a lot more moose lately. The wolf population is decreasing, which means there's fewer predators and the moose population is going up as a result," Young said. "This also means people need to be respectful and give them space."

Onlookers are not allowed to feed the moose, or they could face a fine up to&nbsp;$25,000.

In a first, officials of Jasper, a town in Canada's Alberta province, are urging local residents to not let the wild moose lick the passing cars. Local authorities of Jasper have put up flashing signs on the sides of the roads that read, "Do not let moose lick your car", urging cars and motorists passing by to resist letting moose indulge in the temptation.

In a first, officials of Jasper, a town in Canada's Alberta province, are urging local residents to not let the wild moose lick the passing cars. Local authorities of Jasper have put up flashing signs on the sides of the roads that read, "Do not let moose lick your car", urging cars and motorists passing by to resist letting moose indulge in the temptation. Also read| Canada's largest city Toronto to be on COVID-19 lockdown starting Monday The sign has been put up to make sure that the moose do not get habitual to being around cars and motorcycles in the area, as this poses a threat to the residents using the road, as well as the moose. Officials believe being around speeding cars can be dangerous for moose, and since moose are, sometimes, unpredictable, they can charge at the passing-by vehicles, posing a risk to residents' safety. Oh hi, moose. We have strict instructions about your snack habits. #jasper #Alberta 🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/xSNo7YBrXS — Carolyn Campbell (@_CLCampbell) November 15, 2020 × As per experts, Moose are obsessed with salt as it is one of the important minerals they need in their body. They usually get their daily intake from salt lakes in the park, but they get tempted to lick off the ice salt from the cars. Onlookers usually park their cars along the roads waiting to catch a glimpse of the moose, who appear from time to time. Experts believe this can get Moose habitual to having cars around. "Moose and cars are not a good mix. If you hit the moose with your car, you take the legs out from under it and it's going through your windshield," Jasper National Park spokesman Steve Young told a media house. Also read| Why does Canada celebrate Thanksgiving Day before US Experts are urging people to drive away when they see moose arriving towards their vehicles, or softly blow the horn to scare the moose away. "We've been seeing a lot more moose lately. The wolf population is decreasing, which means there's fewer predators and the moose population is going up as a result," Young said. "This also means people need to be respectful and give them space." Onlookers are not allowed to feed the moose, or they could face a fine up to $25,000.

Too salty: Canadian officials ask residents not to let moose lick their cars

Canada's top cyber security centre has warned of high-tech threats that the country faces from state-run programs from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea.&nbsp;

"The number of cyber threat actors is rising, and they are becoming more sophisticated", said the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

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The report also said these nations are likely building capacities to disrupt key Canadian infrastructure, like the electricity supply to push their motive.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fbi-warns-of-imminent-cyber-crime-threat-to-hospitals-in-us-338792#:~:text=The%20Federal%20Bureau%20of%20Investigation,them%20to%20increase%20their%20protection.&amp;text=The%20federal%20agencies%20urged%20US,precautions%22%20to%20protect%20their%20networks.">FBI warns of 'imminent' cyber crime threat to hospitals in US</a>

It also expected targetting intellectual property related to the fight against the pandemic for boosting their own response to the crisis.&nbsp;

Cyber spying and online influence campaigns are some of the major threats that Canadians and their companies face, it said.&nbsp;

"The most sophisticated capabilities belong to state sponsored cyber threat actors who are motivated by economic, ideological, and geopolitical goals," the centre said.

"We assess that almost certainly the state-sponsored programs of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea pose the greatest state-sponsored cyber threats to Canadian individuals and organizations."

The centre also expected these state-funded attackers to continue conducting "commercial espionage against Canadian businesses, academia, and governments".

It said that the pandemic has caused a rise in teleworking and internet activity amongst the Canadians, which expose them to many cyber threats.&nbsp;

Canada's top cyber security centre has warned of high-tech threats that the country faces from state-run programs from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. "The number of cyber threat actors is rising, and they are becoming more sophisticated", said the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, as reported by news agency AFP.

Canada's top cyber security centre has warned of high-tech threats that the country faces from state-run programs from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea. "The number of cyber threat actors is rising, and they are becoming more sophisticated", said the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, as reported by news agency AFP. Also read | Bangladeshi teenager awarded Children's Peace Prize for fighting cybercrime The report also said these nations are likely building capacities to disrupt key Canadian infrastructure, like the electricity supply to push their motive. Also read | FBI warns of 'imminent' cyber crime threat to hospitals in US It also expected targetting intellectual property related to the fight against the pandemic for boosting their own response to the crisis. Cyber spying and online influence campaigns are some of the major threats that Canadians and their companies face, it said. "The most sophisticated capabilities belong to state sponsored cyber threat actors who are motivated by economic, ideological, and geopolitical goals," the centre said. "We assess that almost certainly the state-sponsored programs of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea pose the greatest state-sponsored cyber threats to Canadian individuals and organizations." The centre also expected these state-funded attackers to continue conducting "commercial espionage against Canadian businesses, academia, and governments". It said that the pandemic has caused a rise in teleworking and internet activity amongst the Canadians, which expose them to many cyber threats.

Canada facing cyber security threat from China, Russia state-sponsored programs: Report

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday said that his country would not bow down to pressure coming in from China, referring to the case of Huawei.&nbsp;

Huawei’s Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Canada on a warrant by US two years ago.

Owing to this, a diplomatic crisis has taken shape between China and Canada. After Meng’s arrest, China detained two Canadian citizens - Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig on charges of espionage.

"We don't believe in coercive diplomacy and ... we actually deeply believe that if you start giving into that kind of pressure, you'll leave yourself worse off for the long term," Trudeau said during an FT online conference in an interview.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/samsung-may-launch-flagship-phone-early-to-grab-huawei-share-341786" hreflang="en">Samsung may launch flagship phone early to grab Huawei share</a>

“China continues to think that they can just put enough pressure on us and we will ... give in, but that's exactly the opposite of our position," he added.

Huawei’s Meng has denied charges against her in the US, and is currently fighting extradition from house arrest in Vancouver.

A Canadian court in August blocked Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou's request for intelligence documents over national security concerns.

To this end, China’s embassy in Canada said Ottawa was “accomplice to United States efforts to bring down Huawei and Chinese high-tech companies.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/huawei-appeals-against-swedens-ban-on-5g-network-ban-341098" hreflang="en">Huawei appeals against Sweden's ban on 5G network ban</a>

Meng, a Chinese citizen and daughter of Huawei’s billionaire founder Ren Zheng, was arrested in December 2018 on a warrant issued by US authorities. They accused her of bank fraud for misleading HSBC about Huawei’s relationship with a company operating in Iran, putting HSBC at risk of fines and penalties for breaking US sanctions on Tehran. Meng had consistently denied the charges.

The Huawei executive's lawyers had sought access to the sensitive documents to support claims of abuse of process during her arrest, however, Justice Catherine Kane said that documents "is not relevant to the allegations of abuse of process described by counsel for Ms. Meng."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-warns-swedish-firms-of-tit-for-tat-action-after-huawei-ban-336962" hreflang="en">China warns Swedish firms of tit-for-tat action after Huawei ban</a>

Canadian government lawyers had earlier said that it has released as much information as it legally can on Meng's arrest as her lawyers pushed for the release of more documents to support their claim that the Canadian and American authorities committed abuses of process while questioning Meng.

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday said that his country would not bow down to pressure coming in from China, referring to the case of Huawei. Huawei’s Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Canada on a warrant by US two years ago.

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday said that his country would not bow down to pressure coming in from China, referring to the case of Huawei. Huawei’s Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Canada on a warrant by US two years ago. Owing to this, a diplomatic crisis has taken shape between China and Canada. After Meng’s arrest, China detained two Canadian citizens - Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig on charges of espionage. "We don't believe in coercive diplomacy and ... we actually deeply believe that if you start giving into that kind of pressure, you'll leave yourself worse off for the long term," Trudeau said during an FT online conference in an interview. Also read: Samsung may launch flagship phone early to grab Huawei share “China continues to think that they can just put enough pressure on us and we will ... give in, but that's exactly the opposite of our position," he added. Huawei’s Meng has denied charges against her in the US, and is currently fighting extradition from house arrest in Vancouver. A Canadian court in August blocked Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou's request for intelligence documents over national security concerns. To this end, China’s embassy in Canada said Ottawa was “accomplice to United States efforts to bring down Huawei and Chinese high-tech companies.” Also read: Huawei appeals against Sweden's ban on 5G network ban Meng, a Chinese citizen and daughter of Huawei’s billionaire founder Ren Zheng, was arrested in December 2018 on a warrant issued by US authorities. They accused her of bank fraud for misleading HSBC about Huawei’s relationship with a company operating in Iran, putting HSBC at risk of fines and penalties for breaking US sanctions on Tehran. Meng had consistently denied the charges. The Huawei executive's lawyers had sought access to the sensitive documents to support claims of abuse of process during her arrest, however, Justice Catherine Kane said that documents "is not relevant to the allegations of abuse of process described by counsel for Ms. Meng." Also read: China warns Swedish firms of tit-for-tat action after Huawei ban Canadian government lawyers had earlier said that it has released as much information as it legally can on Meng's arrest as her lawyers pushed for the release of more documents to support their claim that the Canadian and American authorities committed abuses of process while questioning Meng.

Canada will not give in to China's 'coercive diplomacy', says PM Trudeau

On a snowy evening in December 2016, a month after Donald Trump was elected president of the United States, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada held a rare farewell state dinner for the departing vice president, Joe Biden. It was like a tearful goodbye between two old friends.

“We are more like family. That’s the way the vast majority of Americans feel about Canada and Canadians,” Biden said to a hall packed with politicians in Ottawa. “The friendship between us is absolutely critical to the United States.”

He ended with a toast: “Vive le Canada. Because we need you very, very badly.”

After four years of surprise tariffs, stinging insults and threats from Trump, a giddy jubilation and sense of deep relief spread across Canada on Saturday with the news that Biden had won the presidency. Many Canadians hope to return to the status of cherished sibling to the United States, and that the president-elect’s personal connection to Canada, and that of his running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, will help heal the wounds.

“With Biden, we see the United States as having a centrist conciliator, a friend to Canada, and somebody we can be relaxed with and have genuine disagreements with without being disagreeable,” said Frank McKenna, a former Canadian ambassador to the United States.

He added that people in his yoga class Monday said “Namaste for Joe Biden.”

“People have been walking on eggshells for four years for fear of annoying the president or his sycophants,” he said.

Over the weekend, Trudeau made a congratulatory call to Biden. “We’ve worked with each other before, and we’re ready to pick up on that work and tackle the challenges and opportunities facing our two countries — including climate change and COVID-19,” the prime minister wrote on Twitter, citing two issues where he has deep disagreements with Trump.

(BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.)

For those who have watched Trudeau maintain a disciplined silence in the face of Trump’s attacks, it was easy to read quiet celebration in Trudeau’s message. He said he and Biden had “agreed to keep in touch and work closely together.”

Bruce Heyman, a former U.S. ambassador to Canada, noted that many of Biden’s positions mirror those of the Trudeau government, including the advancement of women’s rights and the importance of fighting climate change.

“This is a man who is more aligned with the Canadian value set, regardless of party,” said Heyman, who was sworn in as ambassador by Biden in 2014, and ran a campaign to get overseas Democrats to vote this year.

Both Biden and Harris have personal connections to Canada. At that state dinner four years ago, Biden noted that his first wife, Neilia, had Canadian family roots, and said that both his sons dreamed of becoming “Mounties,” members of Canada’s national police force.

He recalled that when Neilia and their baby daughter Naomi were killed in a car accident in 1972, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Justin’s father, reached out to him personally “and commiserated with me.”

Harris spent her formative teenage years in Montreal, after her mother Shyamala Gopalan Harris, a breast cancer specialist, got a job working at McGill University and the Jewish General Hospital. Students and teachers gathered on the steps of her alma mater, Westmount High School, on Monday with “Congratulations Kamala” signs. Quebec’s premier, François Legault, noted on Twitter that she had “spent part of her youth in Montreal.”

“We hope to see you soon. You will always be welcome in Quebec,” he wrote.

Few countries had as much at stake in the U.S. elections as Canada. The two countries share the world’s longest border, and two-thirds of Canada’s population lives within 60 miles of it. Roughly three-quarters of Canada’s exports head to the United States, and before the pandemic, many Canadians crossed over regularly to shop, vacation or visit.

As Trudeau says frequently, sometimes with obvious restraint, the relationship with the United States is Canada’s most important, but it is also one that has suffered serious damage in the past four years.

The previous five presidents made a point of traveling to Canada for a state visit within a few months of taking office, and each visited multiple times. Trump went only once as president, for the 2018 Group of 7 meeting, and lashed out at Trudeau as he left, calling the prime minister “very dishonest and weak.”

By then, he had slapped tariffs on the country’s steel and aluminum, claiming national security concerns, which most Canadians found deeply unfair and insulting. Trudeau relied on quiet diplomacy and a team of surrogates who built alliances with people around Trump, and eventually Canada reached a critical new trade deal with the United States and Mexico.

But Canadian feelings toward Trump continued to sour, plummeting to the lowest view of any president over the past 20 years. Recent polls show that as many as 4 in 5 Canadians hoped Biden would be elected president. In an editorial, The Globe and Mail, a leading newspaper, said, “Our downstairs neighbors have gone long enough without an adult in the White House.”

Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada’s left-leaning New Democratic Party, said at a news conference last week, “It would be better for the world if Trump loses.”

The 5,525-mile border between the United States and Canada has been closed since March, when the number of daily new coronavirus infections took off in both countries. Despite the huge economic and personal implications, the vast majority of Canadians support keeping it shut until the United States reduces its infection rate, which is now triple Canada’s.

“The single biggest thing that matters to Canada is whether Biden will be able to bring the virus under control,” said Janice Stein, founding director of the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto. Given how polarized the United States remains, that seems unlikely, she said.

“The politicization of the pandemic is not going to go away,” Stein said.

On a snowy evening in December 2016, a month after Donald Trump was elected president of the United States, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada held a rare farewell state dinner for the departing vice president, Joe Biden.

On a snowy evening in December 2016, a month after Donald Trump was elected president of the United States, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada held a rare farewell state dinner for the departing vice president, Joe Biden. It was like a tearful goodbye between two old friends. “We are more like family. That’s the way the vast majority of Americans feel about Canada and Canadians,” Biden said to a hall packed with politicians in Ottawa. “The friendship between us is absolutely critical to the United States.” He ended with a toast: “Vive le Canada. Because we need you very, very badly.” After four years of surprise tariffs, stinging insults and threats from Trump, a giddy jubilation and sense of deep relief spread across Canada on Saturday with the news that Biden had won the presidency. Many Canadians hope to return to the status of cherished sibling to the United States, and that the president-elect’s personal connection to Canada, and that of his running mate, Sen. Kamala Harris, will help heal the wounds. “With Biden, we see the United States as having a centrist conciliator, a friend to Canada, and somebody we can be relaxed with and have genuine disagreements with without being disagreeable,” said Frank McKenna, a former Canadian ambassador to the United States. He added that people in his yoga class Monday said “Namaste for Joe Biden.” “People have been walking on eggshells for four years for fear of annoying the president or his sycophants,” he said. Over the weekend, Trudeau made a congratulatory call to Biden. “We’ve worked with each other before, and we’re ready to pick up on that work and tackle the challenges and opportunities facing our two countries — including climate change and COVID-19,” the prime minister wrote on Twitter, citing two issues where he has deep disagreements with Trump. (BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.) For those who have watched Trudeau maintain a disciplined silence in the face of Trump’s attacks, it was easy to read quiet celebration in Trudeau’s message. He said he and Biden had “agreed to keep in touch and work closely together.” Bruce Heyman, a former U.S. ambassador to Canada, noted that many of Biden’s positions mirror those of the Trudeau government, including the advancement of women’s rights and the importance of fighting climate change. “This is a man who is more aligned with the Canadian value set, regardless of party,” said Heyman, who was sworn in as ambassador by Biden in 2014, and ran a campaign to get overseas Democrats to vote this year. Both Biden and Harris have personal connections to Canada. At that state dinner four years ago, Biden noted that his first wife, Neilia, had Canadian family roots, and said that both his sons dreamed of becoming “Mounties,” members of Canada’s national police force. He recalled that when Neilia and their baby daughter Naomi were killed in a car accident in 1972, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, Justin’s father, reached out to him personally “and commiserated with me.” Harris spent her formative teenage years in Montreal, after her mother Shyamala Gopalan Harris, a breast cancer specialist, got a job working at McGill University and the Jewish General Hospital. Students and teachers gathered on the steps of her alma mater, Westmount High School, on Monday with “Congratulations Kamala” signs. Quebec’s premier, François Legault, noted on Twitter that she had “spent part of her youth in Montreal.” “We hope to see you soon. You will always be welcome in Quebec,” he wrote. Few countries had as much at stake in the U.S. elections as Canada. The two countries share the world’s longest border, and two-thirds of Canada’s population lives within 60 miles of it. Roughly three-quarters of Canada’s exports head to the United States, and before the pandemic, many Canadians crossed over regularly to shop, vacation or visit. As Trudeau says frequently, sometimes with obvious restraint, the relationship with the United States is Canada’s most important, but it is also one that has suffered serious damage in the past four years. The previous five presidents made a point of traveling to Canada for a state visit within a few months of taking office, and each visited multiple times. Trump went only once as president, for the 2018 Group of 7 meeting, and lashed out at Trudeau as he left, calling the prime minister “very dishonest and weak.” By then, he had slapped tariffs on the country’s steel and aluminum, claiming national security concerns, which most Canadians found deeply unfair and insulting. Trudeau relied on quiet diplomacy and a team of surrogates who built alliances with people around Trump, and eventually Canada reached a critical new trade deal with the United States and Mexico. But Canadian feelings toward Trump continued to sour, plummeting to the lowest view of any president over the past 20 years. Recent polls show that as many as 4 in 5 Canadians hoped Biden would be elected president. In an editorial, The Globe and Mail, a leading newspaper, said, “Our downstairs neighbors have gone long enough without an adult in the White House.” Jagmeet Singh, leader of Canada’s left-leaning New Democratic Party, said at a news conference last week, “It would be better for the world if Trump loses.” The 5,525-mile border between the United States and Canada has been closed since March, when the number of daily new coronavirus infections took off in both countries. Despite the huge economic and personal implications, the vast majority of Canadians support keeping it shut until the United States reduces its infection rate, which is now triple Canada’s. “The single biggest thing that matters to Canada is whether Biden will be able to bring the virus under control,” said Janice Stein, founding director of the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto. Given how polarized the United States remains, that seems unlikely, she said. “The politicization of the pandemic is not going to go away,” Stein said.

After Trump’s tariffs and insults, Canada is relieved at Biden’s win

Police in Quebec City arrested a male suspect early Sunday morning after stabbings left at least two dead and at least five injured in Canada city.

News Alert: Canada stabbings: Multiple people stabbed in Quebec City, suspect has been arrested

Two people were killed and at least five wounded after a man dressed in medieval clothing stabbed them with a sword in Quebec, Canada. The incident took place on Saturday night (local time). A manhunt was launched through the streets of Old Quebec. The man was arrested early Sunday.

Such an incident was sure to cause scare especially after recent incidents of stabbing and beheading in France. However, the incident in Quebec was not connected with terrorist activities.&nbsp;

The police said that the man was not associated with a terrorist group.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stabbing-attack-in-canada-leaves-2-dead-5-injured-339364">Stabbing attack in Canada leaves 2 dead, 5 injured</a> 
 
"Yesterday evening we were plunged into a night of horror when a 24-year-old man, who does not live in Quebec, came with the intention of claiming as many victims as possible," Quebec City police chief Robert Pigeon told reporters.

"Everything leads us to believe" that the suspect, who was armed with a Japanese sword, "chose his victims at random," Pigeon added.

The attack came&nbsp;a day after the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the stabbing attack that took place in the French city of Nice which left three people dead and several injured.

(With AFP inputs)

Two people were killed and at least five wounded after a man dressed in medieval clothing stabbed them with a sword in Quebec, Canada. The incident took place on Saturday night (local time).

Two people were killed and at least five wounded after a man dressed in medieval clothing stabbed them with a sword in Quebec, Canada. The incident took place on Saturday night (local time). A manhunt was launched through the streets of Old Quebec. The man was arrested early Sunday. Such an incident was sure to cause scare especially after recent incidents of stabbing and beheading in France. However, the incident in Quebec was not connected with terrorist activities. The police said that the man was not associated with a terrorist group. Also Read | Stabbing attack in Canada leaves 2 dead, 5 injured "Yesterday evening we were plunged into a night of horror when a 24-year-old man, who does not live in Quebec, came with the intention of claiming as many victims as possible," Quebec City police chief Robert Pigeon told reporters. "Everything leads us to believe" that the suspect, who was armed with a Japanese sword, "chose his victims at random," Pigeon added. The attack came a day after the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the stabbing attack that took place in the French city of Nice which left three people dead and several injured. (With AFP inputs)

Canada: Man who killed two people with sword arrested

At least two people were killed and five were wounded after being stabbed by a man wearing medieval clothes near the Parliament Hill area of Quebec City, Canada late on Saturday, police and local media reported.

Two killed, five wounded in Quebec stabbings: local media

At least two people have been declared dead in the Canadian city of Quebec after a&nbsp;man "dressed in medieval clothes" attacked people with a sharp object on Saturday night, local authorities reported.

The man attacked "multiple victims" on late Saturday night. Two people have been declared dead, while at least five have been injured.

Quebec City police took to Twitter to inform residents and asked them to come forward with any information they have. "The SPVQ is actively looking for a man who allegedly made multiple victims using a knife. According to our preliminary information, the suspect is dressed in medieval clothes. The incidents occurred in the area of Parliament Hill," unit tweeted.&nbsp;(translated text)

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The police officials urged locals in the city to stay indoors and be cautious when the suspect was not caught. "Avoid the Parliament Hill area. The suspect is still not located. For citizens of the whole city: You are asked to stay inside," the warning tweet read.&nbsp;(translated text)

This attack took place around Parliament Hill area in the old Quebec neighbourhood. The suspect, who is reported to be a man in his 20s,&nbsp;was caught more than an hour after the attack near the Espace 400e business park. "Shortly before 1 am, the SPVQ arrested a suspect | We still ask the citizens of Quebec City to stay inside with the doors locked because an investigation is still underway."&nbsp;(translated text)

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***ATTENTION*** | Peu avant 1h du matin, le SPVQ a arrêté un suspect | Nous demandons toujours aux citoyens de la ville de Québec de rester à l’intérieur, les portes verrouillées car une enquête est toujours en cours.
— Service de police de la Ville de Québec (@SPVQ_police) <a href="https://twitter.com/SPVQ_police/status/1322773809640935424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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As of now, five people who had been injured in the attack have been taken to a local hospital for immediate treatment and are under the continuous observation of a team of doctors.

The attack comes a&nbsp;day after the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the&nbsp;stabbing attack that took place in the French city of Nice which left three people dead and several injured. The motive behind this attack is not yet clear. An investigation is underway.

At least two people have been declared dead in the Canadian city of Quebec after a man "dressed in medieval clothes" attacked people with a sharp object on Saturday night, local authorities reported.

At least two people have been declared dead in the Canadian city of Quebec after a man "dressed in medieval clothes" attacked people with a sharp object on Saturday night, local authorities reported. The man attacked "multiple victims" on late Saturday night. Two people have been declared dead, while at least five have been injured. Quebec City police took to Twitter to inform residents and asked them to come forward with any information they have. "The SPVQ is actively looking for a man who allegedly made multiple victims using a knife. According to our preliminary information, the suspect is dressed in medieval clothes. The incidents occurred in the area of Parliament Hill," unit tweeted. (translated text) × The police officials urged locals in the city to stay indoors and be cautious when the suspect was not caught. "Avoid the Parliament Hill area. The suspect is still not located. For citizens of the whole city: You are asked to stay inside," the warning tweet read. (translated text) This attack took place around Parliament Hill area in the old Quebec neighbourhood. The suspect, who is reported to be a man in his 20s, was caught more than an hour after the attack near the Espace 400e business park. "Shortly before 1 am, the SPVQ arrested a suspect | We still ask the citizens of Quebec City to stay inside with the doors locked because an investigation is still underway." (translated text) ***ATTENTION*** | Peu avant 1h du matin, le SPVQ a arrêté un suspect | Nous demandons toujours aux citoyens de la ville de Québec de rester à l’intérieur, les portes verrouillées car une enquête est toujours en cours. — Service de police de la Ville de Québec (@SPVQ_police) November 1, 2020 × As of now, five people who had been injured in the attack have been taken to a local hospital for immediate treatment and are under the continuous observation of a team of doctors. The attack comes a day after the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the stabbing attack that took place in the French city of Nice which left three people dead and several injured. The motive behind this attack is not yet clear. An investigation is underway.

Stabbing attack in Canada leaves 2 dead, 5 injured

While talking about the right to show a caricature of the Prophet Mohammed, the Canadian Prime Minister&nbsp;Justin Trudeau while defending 'free speech' said it is important but it sure does come with limits.

His statement about free speech was related to the recent controversy surrounding the cartoon printed and re-printed by the&nbsp;Charlie Hebdo magazine in France and said Canada will always&nbsp;"defend freedom of expression".

However, Trudeau was careful in framing his responses, especially after seeing the outrage against the French President Emmanuel Macron after his statements about the repeated attacks in France being a result of "Islamist radicalism".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/posters-of-emmanuel-macron-pasted-on-road-in-mumbai-police-remove-them-339067">Also read|&nbsp;Posters of Emmanuel Macron pasted on road in Mumbai, police remove them</a>

"Islam is a religion that is in crisis all over the world today, we are not just seeing this in our country,"&nbsp;Macron had said, after which he has faced several harsh criticisms from organisations, political leaders and individuals worldwide, combined with another terror attack in the country.

Learning from Macron's mistake, Trudeau distanced himself from any direct statement in the press conference and said freedom of expression does not come without limits.&nbsp;"We owe it to ourselves to act with respect for others and to seek not to arbitrarily or unnecessarily injure those with whom we are sharing a society and a planet," Trudeau said.

"We do not have the right for example to shout fire in a movie theatre crowded with people, there are always limits," he added.

He also urged people to be more aware of their words and actions towards fellow humans. "In a pluralist, diverse and respectful society like ours, we owe it to ourselves to be aware of the impact of our words, of our actions on others, particularly these communities and populations who still experience a great deal of discrimination," he said. Trudeau also added that people need to have these complex conversations in a very responsible way.

He also openly condemned the attacks saying, "it is unjustifiable and Canada wholeheartedly condemns these acts while standing with our French friends who are going through extremely difficult times," he said.

While talking about the right to show a caricature of the Prophet Mohammed, the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau while defending 'free speech' said it is important but it sure does come with limits.

While talking about the right to show a caricature of the Prophet Mohammed, the Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau while defending 'free speech' said it is important but it sure does come with limits. His statement about free speech was related to the recent controversy surrounding the cartoon printed and re-printed by the Charlie Hebdo magazine in France and said Canada will always "defend freedom of expression". However, Trudeau was careful in framing his responses, especially after seeing the outrage against the French President Emmanuel Macron after his statements about the repeated attacks in France being a result of "Islamist radicalism". Also read| Posters of Emmanuel Macron pasted on road in Mumbai, police remove them "Islam is a religion that is in crisis all over the world today, we are not just seeing this in our country," Macron had said, after which he has faced several harsh criticisms from organisations, political leaders and individuals worldwide, combined with another terror attack in the country. Learning from Macron's mistake, Trudeau distanced himself from any direct statement in the press conference and said freedom of expression does not come without limits. "We owe it to ourselves to act with respect for others and to seek not to arbitrarily or unnecessarily injure those with whom we are sharing a society and a planet," Trudeau said. "We do not have the right for example to shout fire in a movie theatre crowded with people, there are always limits," he added. He also urged people to be more aware of their words and actions towards fellow humans. "In a pluralist, diverse and respectful society like ours, we owe it to ourselves to be aware of the impact of our words, of our actions on others, particularly these communities and populations who still experience a great deal of discrimination," he said. Trudeau also added that people need to have these complex conversations in a very responsible way. He also openly condemned the attacks saying, "it is unjustifiable and Canada wholeheartedly condemns these acts while standing with our French friends who are going through extremely difficult times," he said.

Canada's Justin Trudeau condemns France attacks but says free speech has limits

Canada has extended a restriction on non-essential international entries until the end of November as Covid-19 cases rise in the region.

A few quarantine rules have, however, been eased for some cut-off Canada-US border communities.

Canada this week hit a grim milestone, recording more than 10,000 Covid-19 deaths while the US moved closer to 230,000.

The travel ban has been in force since mid-March, while Canada and the US have a separate arrangement prohibiting non-essential travel between their two countries set to expire one week earlier.

Travellers allowed into Canada despite the ban -- including essential workers, students, and spouses, children, parents or guardians of Canadian citizens -- must still quarantine for 14 days upon arrival.

Some practical adjustments to the rule would anyway be made to allow residents of a few outlier communities to cross the border to access necessities such as food and medical care without having to self-isolate after each trip.

Participants are tested for Covid-19 infection at the border or after landing at the Calgary airport, and if the result comes back negative, they may end their quarantine early so long as they commit to getting a second test about a week later at a local pharmacy.

The government will also allow exemptions for a pilot project with the province of Alberta on alternatives to quarantines.

Travel between Canada and the United States usually sees 400,000 border crossings per day, but trips have fallen off to a trickle since the pandemic restrictions were put in place.

Canada has extended a restriction on non-essential international entries until the end of November as Covid-19 cases rise in the region. A few quarantine rules have, however, been eased for some cut-off Canada-US border communities.

Canada has extended a restriction on non-essential international entries until the end of November as Covid-19 cases rise in the region. A few quarantine rules have, however, been eased for some cut-off Canada-US border communities. Canada this week hit a grim milestone, recording more than 10,000 Covid-19 deaths while the US moved closer to 230,000. The travel ban has been in force since mid-March, while Canada and the US have a separate arrangement prohibiting non-essential travel between their two countries set to expire one week earlier. Travellers allowed into Canada despite the ban -- including essential workers, students, and spouses, children, parents or guardians of Canadian citizens -- must still quarantine for 14 days upon arrival. Some practical adjustments to the rule would anyway be made to allow residents of a few outlier communities to cross the border to access necessities such as food and medical care without having to self-isolate after each trip. Participants are tested for Covid-19 infection at the border or after landing at the Calgary airport, and if the result comes back negative, they may end their quarantine early so long as they commit to getting a second test about a week later at a local pharmacy. The government will also allow exemptions for a pilot project with the province of Alberta on alternatives to quarantines. Travel between Canada and the United States usually sees 400,000 border crossings per day, but trips have fallen off to a trickle since the pandemic restrictions were put in place.

Canada extends international travellers ban

A Canadian judge ruled Thursday to allow Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou's lawyers to argue the US misled Canada in its request for her extradition.

Meng is wanted in the United States on fraud charges related to violations of US sanctions in Iran.

Her lawyers say the US omitted key information in a case summary that undermined the allegations of fraud, adding her arrest and extradition are invalid.&nbsp;

British Columbia Supreme Court Justice Heather Holmes said in her ruling there "is an air of reality to Ms. Meng's allegations of abuse of process in relation to the requesting state's conduct."

The case record provided by the US includes slides from a Powerpoint presentation she gave in 2013.

It was made to an HSBC executive after the British banking group, worried over potential Iran exposure, requested an explanation.

The US accuses Meng of hiding Huawei's relationship with former subsidiary Skycom in Iran from HSBC bank.

Meng insists she was upfront with HSBC, which her lawyers say was left out in the US warrant and the missing slides will show.

Canada sought to block this evidence, saying it was "not relevant to the extradition hearing" and risked turning a simple extradition proceeding into a "US trial."&nbsp;

But Holmes ruled, "Some of that evidence is realistically capable of challenging the reliability of the (record of the case) on issues relevant in the hearing."&nbsp;

Meng was arrested on a US warrant at the Vancouver airport during a stopover in December 2018, and has been fighting extradition ever since.&nbsp;

The case is scheduled to continue until April 2021.&nbsp;

A Canadian judge ruled Thursday to allow Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou's lawyers to argue the US misled Canada in its request for her extradition. Meng is wanted in the United States on fraud charges related to violations of US sanctions in Iran.

A Canadian judge ruled Thursday to allow Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou's lawyers to argue the US misled Canada in its request for her extradition. Meng is wanted in the United States on fraud charges related to violations of US sanctions in Iran. Her lawyers say the US omitted key information in a case summary that undermined the allegations of fraud, adding her arrest and extradition are invalid. British Columbia Supreme Court Justice Heather Holmes said in her ruling there "is an air of reality to Ms. Meng's allegations of abuse of process in relation to the requesting state's conduct." The case record provided by the US includes slides from a Powerpoint presentation she gave in 2013. It was made to an HSBC executive after the British banking group, worried over potential Iran exposure, requested an explanation. The US accuses Meng of hiding Huawei's relationship with former subsidiary Skycom in Iran from HSBC bank. Meng insists she was upfront with HSBC, which her lawyers say was left out in the US warrant and the missing slides will show. Canada sought to block this evidence, saying it was "not relevant to the extradition hearing" and risked turning a simple extradition proceeding into a "US trial." But Holmes ruled, "Some of that evidence is realistically capable of challenging the reliability of the (record of the case) on issues relevant in the hearing." Meng was arrested on a US warrant at the Vancouver airport during a stopover in December 2018, and has been fighting extradition ever since. The case is scheduled to continue until April 2021.

Judge allows defense to argue US misled Canada in Meng extradition

Acclaimed Indian filmmaker Deepa Mehta's upcoming feature 'Funny Boy' has been chosen as the official entry from Canada at the 93rd Academy Awards in the best international film category.&nbsp;

If selected, it will be the second time that the director will be competing in the category. 
 
Mehta's film 'Water', the third feature in her Elements trilogy, was Oscar-nominated in the international feature film category back in 2007.&nbsp; 
 
The first film in the trilogy was 'Earth' and the director followed it up with 'Fire'.&nbsp;'Funny Boy' is an adaptation of author Shyam Selvadurai's 1994 novel of the same. 
 
Set in Sri Lanka during the 1970s and 1980s, the film explores the sexual awakening of its young protagonist Arjie (played by Arush Nand/Brandon Ingram) from a young boy, deemed 'funny' by disapproving family, to a teenager enamoured by a male classmate. 
As political tensions escalate to a boiling point between the minority Tamils and the majority Sinhalese, the young boy comes of age in society and family that doesn't embrace difference outside of societal norms. 
 
"Eleven outstanding films were submitted this year, and we are confident that Deepa Mehta's 'Funny Boy' will appeal to Academy members just as her powerful film 'Water' did in 2007 when it was nominated in this prestigious category,"said Christa Dickenson, executive director of Telefilm Canada, which chairs the pan-Canadian selection committee deciding the country's entry for the Oscars. 
Mehta was raised in India's capital New Delhi and is now based in Toronto. The filmmaker believes 'Funny Boy' serves hope in the world full of divides. 
 
"'Funny Boy' to me is about humanity and hope. It's about holding up a flag of inclusion, in a world tethering towards an abyss of the great divide. David Hamilton and myself thank the jurors across Canada who saw fit to support our film 'Funny Boy'," she said. The film is co-written by Mehta and Selvadurai. 
 
It was announced earlier this month, that Hollywood filmmaker Ava DuVernay's ARRAY Releasing has acquired "Funny Boy" and will be releasing the film theatrically in select cities as well as on streamer Netflix on December 10.&nbsp;

Acclaimed Indian filmmaker Deepa Mehta's upcoming feature 'Funny Boy' has been chosen as the official entry from Canada at the 93rd Academy Awards in the best international film category.

Acclaimed Indian filmmaker Deepa Mehta's upcoming feature 'Funny Boy' has been chosen as the official entry from Canada at the 93rd Academy Awards in the best international film category. If selected, it will be the second time that the director will be competing in the category. Mehta's film 'Water', the third feature in her Elements trilogy, was Oscar-nominated in the international feature film category back in 2007. The first film in the trilogy was 'Earth' and the director followed it up with 'Fire'. 'Funny Boy' is an adaptation of author Shyam Selvadurai's 1994 novel of the same. Set in Sri Lanka during the 1970s and 1980s, the film explores the sexual awakening of its young protagonist Arjie (played by Arush Nand/Brandon Ingram) from a young boy, deemed 'funny' by disapproving family, to a teenager enamoured by a male classmate. As political tensions escalate to a boiling point between the minority Tamils and the majority Sinhalese, the young boy comes of age in society and family that doesn't embrace difference outside of societal norms. "Eleven outstanding films were submitted this year, and we are confident that Deepa Mehta's 'Funny Boy' will appeal to Academy members just as her powerful film 'Water' did in 2007 when it was nominated in this prestigious category,"said Christa Dickenson, executive director of Telefilm Canada, which chairs the pan-Canadian selection committee deciding the country's entry for the Oscars. Mehta was raised in India's capital New Delhi and is now based in Toronto. The filmmaker believes 'Funny Boy' serves hope in the world full of divides. "'Funny Boy' to me is about humanity and hope. It's about holding up a flag of inclusion, in a world tethering towards an abyss of the great divide. David Hamilton and myself thank the jurors across Canada who saw fit to support our film 'Funny Boy'," she said. The film is co-written by Mehta and Selvadurai. It was announced earlier this month, that Hollywood filmmaker Ava DuVernay's ARRAY Releasing has acquired "Funny Boy" and will be releasing the film theatrically in select cities as well as on streamer Netflix on December 10.

Deepa Mehta's 'Funny Boy' is Canada's official entry to the Oscars

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has denied suggestions that he wanted to trigger a snap election to cash in on good polling numbers during the coronavirus pandemic, saying he was glad he dodged that prospect by surviving a confidence vote this week.

"I am happy we will not have elections. I think everyone is happy we will not have elections," Trudeau said in an interview with French language broadcaster TVA, which was taped Friday and aired Saturday.

"No one wanted elections during the pandemic," said Trudeau, who has presided over a minority government for the past year.

Trudeau warned early this week that he would call early elections if opposition parties in parliament passed a bill creating an anti-corruption committee to probe a case touching him and his family directly, in addition to the government's COVID-19 spending.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/after-boris-johnson-whines-about-his-low-salary-here-is-how-much-world-leaders-earn-336618">Have a look|&nbsp;After Boris Johnson whines about his low salary, here is how much world leaders earn</a>

Trudeau said such a panel would paralyze the work of the government just as Canada deals with a second wave of virus cases.

But the opposition and some commentators said they suspected Trudeau's threat was actually a ploy aimed at triggering elections to take advantage of his good approval rating for his handling of the health crisis.

On Wednesday, the House of Commons held an unusual confidence vote on creating the investigative committee.&nbsp;

Had Trudeau's Liberal government lost, early elections would have been triggered, but the motion was defeated thanks to support for Trudeau from the New Democratic Party.&nbsp;

In the interview, Trudeau denied acting with a political agenda in mind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-borders-with-canada-mexico-to-stay-closed-to-non-essential-travel-until-nov-21-336503">Also read|&nbsp;US borders with Canada, Mexico to stay closed to non-essential travel until Nov 21</a>

"The only calculation I made was to help more people, how are we going to be there to support families around the country," he said.

The committee proposed by the Tories would have looked into a contract awarded to the WE Charity to distribute roughly Can$1 billion (US$760 million) in pandemic relief to young Canadians.&nbsp;

Concerns were raised over the contract after it was revealed that the charity paid Trudeau's wife, brother and mother a combined Can$300,000 for speaking engagements.

The deal was ultimately cancelled and Finance Minister Bill Morneau, who also had links to the charity, resigned in August.

The committee would have also investigated the government's purchase of ventilators and lobbying by the husband of Trudeau's chief of staff.&nbsp;

The latest polls give the Liberals a lead of almost seven points over the Conservatives.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has denied suggestions that he wanted to trigger a snap election to cash in on good polling numbers during the coronavirus pandemic, saying he was glad he dodged that prospect by surviving a confidence vote this week.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has denied suggestions that he wanted to trigger a snap election to cash in on good polling numbers during the coronavirus pandemic, saying he was glad he dodged that prospect by surviving a confidence vote this week. "I am happy we will not have elections. I think everyone is happy we will not have elections," Trudeau said in an interview with French language broadcaster TVA, which was taped Friday and aired Saturday. "No one wanted elections during the pandemic," said Trudeau, who has presided over a minority government for the past year. Trudeau warned early this week that he would call early elections if opposition parties in parliament passed a bill creating an anti-corruption committee to probe a case touching him and his family directly, in addition to the government's COVID-19 spending. Have a look| After Boris Johnson whines about his low salary, here is how much world leaders earn Trudeau said such a panel would paralyze the work of the government just as Canada deals with a second wave of virus cases. But the opposition and some commentators said they suspected Trudeau's threat was actually a ploy aimed at triggering elections to take advantage of his good approval rating for his handling of the health crisis. On Wednesday, the House of Commons held an unusual confidence vote on creating the investigative committee. Had Trudeau's Liberal government lost, early elections would have been triggered, but the motion was defeated thanks to support for Trudeau from the New Democratic Party. In the interview, Trudeau denied acting with a political agenda in mind. Also read| US borders with Canada, Mexico to stay closed to non-essential travel until Nov 21 "The only calculation I made was to help more people, how are we going to be there to support families around the country," he said. The committee proposed by the Tories would have looked into a contract awarded to the WE Charity to distribute roughly Can$1 billion (US$760 million) in pandemic relief to young Canadians. Concerns were raised over the contract after it was revealed that the charity paid Trudeau's wife, brother and mother a combined Can$300,000 for speaking engagements. The deal was ultimately cancelled and Finance Minister Bill Morneau, who also had links to the charity, resigned in August. The committee would have also investigated the government's purchase of ventilators and lobbying by the husband of Trudeau's chief of staff. The latest polls give the Liberals a lead of almost seven points over the Conservatives.

Justin Trudeau denies he sought snap election in Canada

Why is a town in Canada's Quebec renaming itself? The residents of Asbestos have selected a new and 'less hazardous' name for themselves. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Why a Canadian City has renamed itself

Bank of Canada survey has shown that the business sentiment in Canada has improved as COVID-19 restrictions have eased, though it remains “negative” with one-third of firms saying they do not expect sales to return to pre-pandemic levels within the next 12 months.

Bank of Canada survey finds business sentiment improves but remains negative

Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish President protested against Canada's suspension of drone technology export to Turkey. Erdogan said that the move by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was not in the spirit of the alliance. Erdogan was quoted by his office.

Earlier this month Canada suspended export of drone technology to Turkey as it probed allegations that the equipment was used by Azeri forces against Armenia. Azerbaijan and Armenia are currently locked in conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh region.

On Friday, Erdogan and Trudeau discussed improving relations and increasing bilateral trade, the Turkish presidency said, adding that they also talked about overcoming issues about co-operation in defense sector.

"During the call, President Tayyip Erdogan said Canada`s suspension of the export of some military goods to Turkey due to the Azerbajian-Armenia conflict... is against the spirit of alliance," the presidency said. 
Turkey and Canada are both members of NATO.

Turkey's Foreign Ministry has been strong in its response to Canada's decision. The ministry said that suspension showed a double standard.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greece-cyprus-told-to-wait-for-eu-action-on-provocative-turkey-335867">Greece, Cyprus told to wait for EU action on 'provocative' Turkey</a> 
 
Turkey`s military exports to its ally Azerbaijan have risen six-fold this year, with sales of drones and other military equipment rising to $77 million last month alone before fighting broke out over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, according to exports data.

Canadian arms control group Project Ploughshares says video of airstrikes released by Azerbaijan indicates the drones had been equipped with imaging and targeting systems made by L3Harris Wescam, the Canada-based unit of L3Harris Technologies Inc .

Ankara has said it stands firmly beside its close ally in the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh.

(With Reuters inputs)

Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish President protested against Canada's suspension of drone technology export to Turkey. Erdogan said that the move by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was not in the spirit of the alliance.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish President protested against Canada's suspension of drone technology export to Turkey. Erdogan said that the move by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was not in the spirit of the alliance. Erdogan was quoted by his office. Earlier this month Canada suspended export of drone technology to Turkey as it probed allegations that the equipment was used by Azeri forces against Armenia. Azerbaijan and Armenia are currently locked in conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh region. On Friday, Erdogan and Trudeau discussed improving relations and increasing bilateral trade, the Turkish presidency said, adding that they also talked about overcoming issues about co-operation in defense sector. "During the call, President Tayyip Erdogan said Canada`s suspension of the export of some military goods to Turkey due to the Azerbajian-Armenia conflict... is against the spirit of alliance," the presidency said. Turkey and Canada are both members of NATO. Turkey's Foreign Ministry has been strong in its response to Canada's decision. The ministry said that suspension showed a double standard. Also Read | Greece, Cyprus told to wait for EU action on 'provocative' Turkey Turkey`s military exports to its ally Azerbaijan have risen six-fold this year, with sales of drones and other military equipment rising to $77 million last month alone before fighting broke out over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, according to exports data. Canadian arms control group Project Ploughshares says video of airstrikes released by Azerbaijan indicates the drones had been equipped with imaging and targeting systems made by L3Harris Wescam, the Canada-based unit of L3Harris Technologies Inc . Ankara has said it stands firmly beside its close ally in the conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh. (With Reuters inputs)

Suspension of drone technology exports against alliance spirit: Erdogan to Trudeau

A top Chinese diplomat warned Canada Thursday against granting asylum to Hong Kong democracy protesters, adding that doing so could jeopardize the "health and safety" of Canadians living in the southern Chinese financial hub.

The remarks by Cong Peiwu, Beijing's Ottawa envoy, prompted a rebuke from Canada's foreign minister, further escalating tensions between the two countries.

Cong was responding to reports that a Hong Kong couple who took part in last year's huge and sometimes violent protests had been granted refugee status.

The landmark decision makes it likely other Hong Kongers will be given sanctuary in Canada, which has emerged as a top destination for those fleeing Beijing's crackdown.

"We strongly urge the Canadian side not (to) grant so-called political asylum to those violent criminals in Hong Kong because it is the interference in China's domestic affairs. And certainly, it will embolden those violent criminals," Cong said in a video press conference.

"So if the Canadian side really cares about the stability and the prosperity in Hong Kong, and really cares about the good health and safety of those 300,000 Canadian passport-holders in Hong Kong, and the large number of Canadian companies operating in Hong Kong SAR, you should support those efforts to fight violent crimes," Cong said.

When asked by reporters if that latter comment was a threat, Cong replied: "That's your interpretation."

Canada's Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne described Cong's comments as "totally unacceptable and disturbing".

"I have instructed Global Affairs to call the ambassador in to make clear in no uncertain terms that Canada will always stand up for human rights and the rights of Canadians around the world," he said in a statement carried by the Globe and Mail and other Canadian news outlets.

China and Canada are marking 50 years since they forged diplomatic ties -- but those relations are deeply strained.

Ties plummeted following Canada's arrest of Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Chinese telecoms giant Huawei and daughter of its founder.

Meng was arrested on a US warrant in December 2018 during a stopover in Vancouver and is charged with bank fraud related to violations of US sanctions against Iran.&nbsp;

She has been fighting extradition ever since.

Canadian former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor were arrested in China on spying charges soon afterwards, disappearing into Beijing's opaque judicial system.

Western governments see the detention of the two Canadians as direct retaliation by Beijing.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hit out at Beijing for what he said was its "coercive diplomacy" as well as the ongoing crackdowns in Hong Kong and on Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang.&nbsp;

Cong rejected Trudeau's comments at his Thursday press conference.&nbsp;

"There is no coercive diplomacy on the Chinese side," he said.

"The Hong Kong issue and the Xinjiang-related issue are not about the issue of human rights. They are purely about internal affairs of China, which brooks no interference from the outside," he added.

A top Chinese diplomat warned Canada Thursday against granting asylum to Hong Kong democracy protesters, adding that doing so could jeopardize the "health and safety" of Canadians living in the southern Chinese financial hub.

A top Chinese diplomat warned Canada Thursday against granting asylum to Hong Kong democracy protesters, adding that doing so could jeopardize the "health and safety" of Canadians living in the southern Chinese financial hub. The remarks by Cong Peiwu, Beijing's Ottawa envoy, prompted a rebuke from Canada's foreign minister, further escalating tensions between the two countries. Cong was responding to reports that a Hong Kong couple who took part in last year's huge and sometimes violent protests had been granted refugee status. The landmark decision makes it likely other Hong Kongers will be given sanctuary in Canada, which has emerged as a top destination for those fleeing Beijing's crackdown. "We strongly urge the Canadian side not (to) grant so-called political asylum to those violent criminals in Hong Kong because it is the interference in China's domestic affairs. And certainly, it will embolden those violent criminals," Cong said in a video press conference. "So if the Canadian side really cares about the stability and the prosperity in Hong Kong, and really cares about the good health and safety of those 300,000 Canadian passport-holders in Hong Kong, and the large number of Canadian companies operating in Hong Kong SAR, you should support those efforts to fight violent crimes," Cong said. When asked by reporters if that latter comment was a threat, Cong replied: "That's your interpretation." Canada's Foreign Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne described Cong's comments as "totally unacceptable and disturbing". "I have instructed Global Affairs to call the ambassador in to make clear in no uncertain terms that Canada will always stand up for human rights and the rights of Canadians around the world," he said in a statement carried by the Globe and Mail and other Canadian news outlets. China and Canada are marking 50 years since they forged diplomatic ties -- but those relations are deeply strained. Ties plummeted following Canada's arrest of Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Chinese telecoms giant Huawei and daughter of its founder. Meng was arrested on a US warrant in December 2018 during a stopover in Vancouver and is charged with bank fraud related to violations of US sanctions against Iran. She has been fighting extradition ever since. Canadian former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor were arrested in China on spying charges soon afterwards, disappearing into Beijing's opaque judicial system. Western governments see the detention of the two Canadians as direct retaliation by Beijing. On Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hit out at Beijing for what he said was its "coercive diplomacy" as well as the ongoing crackdowns in Hong Kong and on Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang. Cong rejected Trudeau's comments at his Thursday press conference. "There is no coercive diplomacy on the Chinese side," he said. "The Hong Kong issue and the Xinjiang-related issue are not about the issue of human rights. They are purely about internal affairs of China, which brooks no interference from the outside," he added.

China warns Canada against granting Hong Kongers sanctuary

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has slammed CHina for its ill-treatment of&nbsp;Uighur Muslims and has warned the Asian country against its&nbsp;"coercive diplomacy".

On the 50th anniversary of Canada's diplomatic ties with China,&nbsp;Trudeau warned China against the inhumane treatment and its&nbsp;"coercive diplomacy" in Hong Kong as well as the detention of Uighur Muslims.

He warned China that Canada will not back down from taking actions against these allegations, especially after the increasing detention of Canadian citizens in China.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-gets-consular-access-to-citizens-detained-in-china-334474">Also read:&nbsp;Canada gets consular access to citizens detained in China</a>

"We will remain absolutely committed to working with our allies to ensure that China's approach of coercive diplomacy, its arbitrary detention of two Canadian citizens alongside other citizens of other countries around the world is not viewed as a successful tactic by them," Trudeau said at a press conference.

He also urged other countries to come together to fight against China's rising tensions with the world. He vowed that Canada will "continue to work with our fellow like-minded nations around the world, to impress upon China that its approach to internal affairs and global affairs is not on a particularly productive path for itself or for all of us."

The statements have come a few days after Canada finally gained consular access to&nbsp;Canadian former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor who have been detained in China over the charged of espionage. Canada, however, believes this is a retaliation by China over&nbsp;Canada's arrest of Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Chinese telecoms giant Huawei and daughter of its founder.

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has slammed CHina for its ill-treatment of Uighur Muslims and has warned the Asian country against its "coercive diplomacy".

The Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has slammed CHina for its ill-treatment of Uighur Muslims and has warned the Asian country against its "coercive diplomacy". On the 50th anniversary of Canada's diplomatic ties with China, Trudeau warned China against the inhumane treatment and its "coercive diplomacy" in Hong Kong as well as the detention of Uighur Muslims. He warned China that Canada will not back down from taking actions against these allegations, especially after the increasing detention of Canadian citizens in China. Also read: Canada gets consular access to citizens detained in China "We will remain absolutely committed to working with our allies to ensure that China's approach of coercive diplomacy, its arbitrary detention of two Canadian citizens alongside other citizens of other countries around the world is not viewed as a successful tactic by them," Trudeau said at a press conference. He also urged other countries to come together to fight against China's rising tensions with the world. He vowed that Canada will "continue to work with our fellow like-minded nations around the world, to impress upon China that its approach to internal affairs and global affairs is not on a particularly productive path for itself or for all of us." The statements have come a few days after Canada finally gained consular access to Canadian former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor who have been detained in China over the charged of espionage. Canada, however, believes this is a retaliation by China over Canada's arrest of Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Chinese telecoms giant Huawei and daughter of its founder.

Justin Trudeau vows to fight against China's treatment of Uighur and Hong Kong

Canada has finaly been able to make contact with two of its citizens who were detained by the Chinese authorities in January.

The Canadian authorities have been seeking consular access for these two citizens for the past few months. Canada's Foreign Affairs Ministry&nbsp;has described these detainments to be&nbsp;"arbitrary detention" in China.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/british-parliaments-defence-committee-says-huawei-colludes-with-chinese-communist-party-333440">Also read:&nbsp;British parliament's defence committee says Huawei colludes with Chinese Communist Party</a>

The department, on Sunday, reported that Canada's ambassador to China&nbsp;Dominic Barton gained&nbsp;"virtual consular access" to the two citizens on&nbsp;Friday and Saturday —&nbsp;Michael Spavor on Friday,&nbsp;Michael Kovrig on Saturday.

Two of them have been in detained in China since December 2018 on the charge of espionage, which was applied in June 2019. Kovrig is a former diplomat and Spavor was a consultant.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/orange-venture-in-belgium-replaces-huawei-and-awards-5g-contract-to-nokia-333927">Also read:&nbsp;Orange venture in Belgium replaces Huawei and awards 5G contract to Nokia</a>

Canada believes that the two citizens were detained as a retaliation for Canada detaining Chinese company Huawei's CFO, Meng Wanzhou. She was arrested in 2018 on a US warrant for the charges of bank fraud&nbsp;related to violations of US sanctions against Iran.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he spoke with Donald Trump on Saturday and thanked the US president for Washington's continued support of efforts to free the two Canadians.

Canada has finaly been able to make contact with two of its citizens who were detained by the Chinese authorities in January. The Canadian authorities have been seeking consular access for these two citizens for the past few months.

Canada has finaly been able to make contact with two of its citizens who were detained by the Chinese authorities in January. The Canadian authorities have been seeking consular access for these two citizens for the past few months. Canada's Foreign Affairs Ministry has described these detainments to be "arbitrary detention" in China. Also read: British parliament's defence committee says Huawei colludes with Chinese Communist Party The department, on Sunday, reported that Canada's ambassador to China Dominic Barton gained "virtual consular access" to the two citizens on Friday and Saturday — Michael Spavor on Friday, Michael Kovrig on Saturday. Two of them have been in detained in China since December 2018 on the charge of espionage, which was applied in June 2019. Kovrig is a former diplomat and Spavor was a consultant. Also read: Orange venture in Belgium replaces Huawei and awards 5G contract to Nokia Canada believes that the two citizens were detained as a retaliation for Canada detaining Chinese company Huawei's CFO, Meng Wanzhou. She was arrested in 2018 on a US warrant for the charges of bank fraud related to violations of US sanctions against Iran. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he spoke with Donald Trump on Saturday and thanked the US president for Washington's continued support of efforts to free the two Canadians.

Canada gets consular access to citizens detained in China

There are signs that Canada has begun opening doors for pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong as refugees. Canada has already granted refuge to a couple, both in their early 30s on these grounds. Pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong have been going on on large scale since 2019. The protests started when Hong Kong's leadership tried to enact legislation that paved way for extradition to China.

On September 1, the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada told the Hong Kong couple that they had been given asylum as they were determined to be "Convention refugees".

As per Canadian law, a convention refugee is someone who can't return to their home country due to a "well founded fear of persecution" on grounds of "race, religion, political opinion".

Media reports said that the couple was involved in the protests. The man has been associated with a prominent political party in Hong Kong and both of them were part of street protests opposing Hong Kong authorities' efforts to push the legislation.

After the asylum was granted, the man was quoted as saying that he felt safe and no more had to hide.

Hong Kong is a former British Colony. Though it is now controlled by China, the semi-autonomous nature of the city affords it to have regulations that are more liberal than those in the mainland.

There are signs that Canada has begun opening doors for pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong as refugees. Canada has already granted refuge to a couple, both in their early 30s on these grounds.

There are signs that Canada has begun opening doors for pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong as refugees. Canada has already granted refuge to a couple, both in their early 30s on these grounds. Pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong have been going on on large scale since 2019. The protests started when Hong Kong's leadership tried to enact legislation that paved way for extradition to China. On September 1, the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada told the Hong Kong couple that they had been given asylum as they were determined to be "Convention refugees". As per Canadian law, a convention refugee is someone who can't return to their home country due to a "well founded fear of persecution" on grounds of "race, religion, political opinion". Media reports said that the couple was involved in the protests. The man has been associated with a prominent political party in Hong Kong and both of them were part of street protests opposing Hong Kong authorities' efforts to push the legislation. After the asylum was granted, the man was quoted as saying that he felt safe and no more had to hide. Hong Kong is a former British Colony. Though it is now controlled by China, the semi-autonomous nature of the city affords it to have regulations that are more liberal than those in the mainland.

Canada accepts Hong Kong pro-democracy activists as refugees

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