Two individuals lost their lives Saturday, and at least six others were injured during a shooting at a salsa festival in Toronto, according to local authorities. A suspect remains at large.
Recent police reports indicated multiple victims with gunshot wounds on the scene, with two confirmed dead. Details about the injuries’ severity have not been released.
Authorities reported a significant police presence still ongoing as they continue their investigation.
An AFP reporter at the scene described the incident as taking place during a salsa event on St. Clair Avenue.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford expressed his devastation over the violence, stating on social media, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic violence at the Salsa on St. Clair Festival that has claimed two lives and left others wounded.”
This incident follows a shooting in Montreal late last month, where two people, including a police officer, were killed by an attacker who was subsequently shot and killed by law enforcement.
In February, Tumbler Ridge, a small western mining town, experienced a school shooting that resulted in eight deaths, including the shooter’s mother and half-brother, along with 27 injuries before the shooter took her own life.
Tag: Canada
-
Toronto Shooting: 2 Dead, Several Hurt, Attacker Still At Large
-
Canada’s PM Starts Crucial India Trip to Boost Trade
Canada’s Prime Minister has arrived in India, aiming to reset relations and substantially increase bilateral trade, counteracting recent strains with the U.S. His visit marks a significant step after diplomatic ties nearly collapsed in 2023 when Ottawa accused New Delhi of orchestrating a deadly campaign targeting Sikh activists in Canada.
Based in Mumbai, the Prime Minister is scheduled to speak with business leaders before heading to New Delhi, where he is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, the final day of his trip. During the journey, Indian media captured convoy footage as the Prime Minister was transported through Mumbai.
Officials state discussions will focus on forming “ambitious new partnerships” across sectors such as trade, energy, technology, artificial intelligence, talent, culture, and defense. This follows an agreement last year to restart negotiations on a proposed free-trade deal. The goal is to more than double current trade volume with India by 2030, setting an annual target of $51 billion.
Tensions escalated in 2023 when Ottawa claimed that Modi’s government was directly involved in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and advocate for an independent Sikh state called Khalistan. Elements of Khalistan have been implicated in the assassination of an Indian Prime Minister and attacks on Indian aircraft. Trudeau’s government also alleged that India had orchestrated intimidation campaigns against Sikh activists in Canada. These allegations caused a diplomatic fallout, resulting in the expulsion of several top diplomats in 2024.
Relations improved after Carney took office in March 2025, and diplomatic missions have been restored. When asked if concerns about transnational repression would be discussed during his visit to New Delhi, Foreign Minister Anita Anand responded, “That is always at the forefront of our minds.”
-
Canada updates Express Entry rules, includes military occupations
Canada has unveiled new immigration priority categories aimed at attracting skilled professionals across various sectors, including research, healthcare, aviation, and certain military recruits. These categories correspond with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s strategy to reduce the influx of newcomers while prioritizing highly skilled workers, academics, and bolstering defense capabilities to reduce dependence on the U.S.
The government stated that this change seeks to restore immigration levels to sustainable numbers and address labour shortages in essential industries. In recent years, efforts have been made to curb immigration numbers to ease pressures on housing and social services.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab emphasized that the 2026 updates to the Express Entry program will help draw talent that can immediately contribute to the economy, particularly in sectors facing critical staffing shortages. The new streams will prioritize researchers, senior managers, transportation workers such as pilots and aircraft mechanics, as well as internationally trained medical professionals with Canadian experience. Military applicants, including doctors, nurses, and pilots recruited by the Canadian Armed Forces, will also be part of the new categories.
Diab highlighted that a resilient workforce is key to Canada’s economic future amid changing global conditions.
In addition, Prime Minister Carney announced a new defense strategy that seeks to ramp up government investment in defense research by 85% over the next decade, significantly increase defense industry revenue, expand exports, and create up to 125,000 new high-quality jobs. Canada has committed to raising its defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, aligning with NATO’s goals.
Existing Express Entry pathways—such as those for French speakers, healthcare workers, and skilled trades—will continue running alongside these new targeted streams.
-
Ten killed in tragic mass shooting in British Columbia, Canada
Ten individuals, including a suspected shooter, were found dead following a mass shooting in a northeastern town of British Columbia on Tuesday, according to Canadian authorities.
Inside a high school in Tumbler Ridge, six victims were discovered dead. Two additional fatalities were confirmed at a nearby residence linked to the incident. One more individual died en route to a hospital. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported that the suspected shooter was also found dead, with signs pointing to a self-inflicted injury. Authorities emphasized that there is no ongoing threat or additional suspects involved.
The suspect might have been a woman, as an active shooter alert in British Columbia described the individual as a woman dressed in a dress with brown hair.
“Multiple injuries and fatalities were evident inside the school as officers investigated the scene,” stated police Superintendent Ken Floyd during a press conference. “The area is now secured, and investigators are working to determine the injury details and any weapons involved.”
Tumbler Ridge, a small town with roughly 2,400 residents, is situated in the Rocky Mountain foothills of northern British Columbia, about 717 miles northeast of Vancouver. An additional 25 people are being evaluated for injuries at a local medical center.
British Columbia’s Public Safety Minister Nina Krieger expressed sympathy, saying, “Our thoughts are with everyone in Tumbler Ridge. I’ve spoken with the mayor and local MLA, and we’re providing the RCMP with any additional support they require.”
-
Trump Threatens Canada with Full Tariff Over China Deal
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that he would impose a 100% tariff on goods imported from Canada if the country proceeds with a trade agreement with China. He warned Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney that such a move could threaten Canada’s economy.
“China will completely dominate Canada, wiping out their businesses, social structure, and way of life,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
“If Canada makes a deal with China, a 100% tariff will be enforced on all Canadian products entering the U.S.”In a video posted on Saturday, Carney encouraged Canadians to support domestic companies but did not directly address Trump’s tariff warning.
“Our economy is under threat from abroad, so Canadians have chosen to focus on what we can control,” Carney stated. “We can’t control other nations’ actions, but we can be our own best customer.”
Earlier this month, Carney traveled to China in an effort to repair the strained relationship between the two countries and successfully negotiated a trade deal with China, Canada’s second-largest trading partner after the U.S.
Following Carney’s visit to China, Trump appeared to show support. “It’s good for him to sign a trade agreement,” Trump told reporters at the White House on January 16. “If you can reach an agreement with China, you should go for it.”
Canada’s Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc clarified on Saturday that the agreement achieved was primarily about resolving key tariff issues, not a free trade deal.
“The focus was on resolving several important tariff issues,” LeBlanc stated on X (formerly Twitter).The Chinese embassy in Canada indicated that China is prepared to work with Canada to implement the leaders’ shared consensus.
Tensions between the two countries increased recently following Carney’s criticism of Trump’s efforts to acquire Greenland.
Increased Pressure on Canadian Industries
Trump also implied that China might try to use Canada as a conduit to avoid U.S. tariffs.“If Governor Carney thinks he’s going to make Canada a ‘Drop-Off Point’ for Chinese goods to enter the U.S., he’s mistaken,” Trump tweeted. He referred to Carney with a nickname linked to previous calls for Canada to become the 51st U.S. state.
Later on Saturday, Trump emphasized, “The last thing the world needs is China taking over Canada. That is NOT going to happen!”
Should Trump implement the proposed tariffs, it would sharply increase costs for Canadian exports, impacting sectors like metals, automotive manufacturing, and machinery.
Until recently, relations between Carney and Trump were relatively cordial; however, Carney’s recent outspoken opposition to Trump’s Greenland ambitions marked a change.
At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Carney called for nations to accept that the global rules-based order is over, highlighting Canada’s potential role as a middle power working in concert with others to resist American dominance.
He warned, “Middle powers must act together because if you are not at the table, you are on the menu,” eliciting a standing ovation from many international leaders and industry figures.
Trump responded at Davos, asserting that “Canada’s existence depends on the United States,” a statement Carney rejected, affirming Canada’s independence and success: “Canada thrives because we are Canadian.”
Since then, Trump has taken steps such as revoking an invitation for Canada to join his Board of Peace, a group he intends to consult regarding international conflicts and the future of Gaza.
Despite a promising start last year, Trump has since dismissed the US-Canada-Mexico trade agreement as “irrelevant,” throwing numerous tariff threats since regaining the presidency—though many have been paused or withdrawn amid negotiations.
Most recently, Trump temporarily backed away from threatening tariffs on European allies after NATO leaders pledged increased Arctic security.
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce expressed hope that the two governments can quickly resolve these issues to reduce uncertainty and protect industries facing immediate risks.
-
Canada Removes Syria Sanctions After US Action
Canada announced the removal of Syria from its list of state sponsors of terrorism and lifted the designation of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) as a terrorist organization, aligning with recent international decisions that favor easing sanctions on Damascus.
These actions follow a shift in control, after HTS ousted the previous Syrian government leader Bashar al-Assad last December and assumed authority over the country.
In a statement, Canada’s Foreign Ministry emphasized that these decisions were made after careful consideration. They explained that the moves are consistent with the policies of allies such as the UK and the US, and reflect the efforts of the Syrian transitional government to promote stability within the nation.
Canada designated Syria as a state supporter of terrorism in 2012, in response to Assad’s violent suppression of pro-democracy protests, which ignited a civil war. Al-Tahrir al-Sham, previously sanctioned for its links to al-Qaeda, has been delisted by some Western countries to facilitate cooperation with the new Syrian administration and its president, Ahmed al-Sharaa.
Since coming to power, Syria’s new leadership has sought to distance itself from its violent past by projecting a more moderate image both domestically and internationally.
While the government has eased some sanctions, Canada continues to maintain measures against 56 individuals, including former officials from the Assad regime and members of the Assad family, according to the foreign ministry.
-
Indian diplomat in Ottawa pays $50,000 to hitman to target Khalistan referendum organizer: SFJ
Pro-Khalistan flags are visible at the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, photographed on September 20, 2023. — Reuters
The Sikhs For Justice (SFJ), a United States-based organization advocating for Khalistan independence, claims that an active Indian diplomat in Ottawa attempted to plot the assassination of Inderjeet Singh Gosal. They describe it as a “contract killing” scheme, with $50,000 allegedly offered to a supposed hitman.
SFJ states that Canadian security and intelligence agencies were aware of the alleged assassination plan, and that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) recently provided Gosal with protective measures amid what they describe as an imminent danger.
Gosal has been previously identified by Canadian media as an organizer in the movement for a Sikh independence referendum in Punjab. He has also indicated that he received a police “duty-to-warn” notice about threats he believes originated from India — a claim India has consistently denied in broader disputes.
Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, SFJ’s legal director, explained that the organization is making these allegations public to prevent another assassination of a Sikh activist in Canada, referencing the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, BC. Nijjar’s death led to a significant diplomatic conflict between Canada and India.
SFJ’s statement also urged supporters to keep a close watch on India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh K Patnaik. Security experts typically advise against individual tracking and recommend reporting credible threats directly to police. Patnaik is officially recognized by India as its diplomatic envoy to Canada.
These revelations come at a delicate time in Canada-India relations. In October 2024, Canada expelled several Indian diplomats, citing links to an RCMP investigation into violent crimes associated with the Nijjar case — a move India dismissed as “preposterous.”
Recently, Gosal has been granted “Witness Protection” by the RCMP because of an immediate threat to his life.
According to Pannun, multiple Canadian security agencies, including the RCMP, have already received and evaluated intelligence regarding the alleged contract killing plot against Gosal. This information has been relayed to Canada’s highest government offices, such as Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Office, Foreign Minister Anita Anand’s Office, and the Minister of Public Safety’s Office.
Pannun claimed, “Gosal’s contract-to-kill scheme is a direct consequence of Prime Minister Carney initiating trade discussions with Modi without demanding accountability. Canadian sovereignty has deteriorated to the point where Indian diplomats feel free to plan assassinations.”
-
Canada and India prepare to restart trade negotiations
Canada and India have agreed to initiate negotiations on a new free trade agreement, according to Prime Minister Mark Carney. This development signals a move toward improving relations after recent tensions.
Carney’s office announced the upcoming talks following a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday during the G20 summit in South Africa.
Relations between the two countries had worsened after Canada accused India of involvement in the 2023 assassination of a Canadian Sikh leader—an allegation India denied.
This diplomatic conflict significantly affected diplomatic and trade relations, which saw approximately $9 billion worth of goods and services exchanged in 2023.
Since taking office in March, Carney has emphasized the importance of diversifying Canada’s trade partnerships beyond the U.S., which has imposed heavy tariffs on Canadian industries.
Carney stated that both leaders agreed to pursue bold negotiations for a trade deal aiming to double bilateral trade to CAD 70 billion by 2030.
He also confirmed he has accepted Modi’s invitation to visit India early next year.
Canada hosts the world’s largest Sikh community outside India, including activists pushing for Khalistan, a movement seeking an independent state for Sikhs.
Ottawa accused India of orchestrating the 2023 Vancouver murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and prominent Khalistan supporter, along with targeting other Sikh activists.
This issue has caused friction between India and several Western nations with significant Sikh populations. -
Canada’s Carney apologizes to Trump over Reagan ad
A photo shows US President Donald Trump (on the right) in a meeting with Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney inside the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, DC, on October 7, 2025. — Reuters
– Ontario ran an anti-tariff advertisement featuring Ronald Reagan.
– Trump responded by announcing an increase in tariffs.
– Carney states he did not want the ad to be broadcast.Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney apologized to President Trump on Saturday for an anti-tariff political ad and advised Ontario Premier Doug Ford not to run it. After attending an Asia-Pacific summit in South Korea, Carney told reporters that he privately apologized to Trump during a dinner hosted by South Korea’s president on Wednesday.
“I did apologize to the president,” Carney confirmed, echoing Trump’s comments from Friday. He also said he reviewed the ad with Ford beforehand but opposed its release.
“I told Ford I didn’t want to move forward with the ad,” Carney added. The commercial, funded by outspoken Tory politician Ford—who is sometimes compared to Trump—features a clip of Ronald Reagan warning that tariffs lead to trade wars and economic ruin.
In retaliation, Trump announced plans to increase tariffs on Canadian imports and halted trade negotiations with Canada. Earlier this week, Trump described a pleasant encounter with Carney at the same dinner but did not provide details. On Friday, Trump reiterated that negotiations with Canada remain stalled, while Carney issued an apology for the ad quoting Reagan.
“I like him a lot, but what they did was wrong,” Trump said. “He apologized because it was a false advertisement.”
Meanwhile, Carney described his discussion with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday as a significant shift after years of strained relations. The last formal meeting between Canadian and Chinese leaders happened in 2017 when then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau briefly spoke with Xi in San Francisco.
Carney explained that his trip to Asia aimed to diversify Canada’s economic ties away from heavy reliance on the U.S.
-
India and Canada unveil fresh plan to strengthen ties
India and Canada agree on a new plan to improve their relationship after discussions between their foreign ministers in New Delhi, aiming to mend ties that were strained over the incident involving a Canadian Sikh separatist. The two nations, both looking to diversify their trade away from the U.S. amid tariff changes, committed to working together on critical minerals, trade, and agriculture value chains, according to a joint statement.
Reviving this partnership is expected to open up more economic opportunities and help reduce vulnerabilities caused by shifting global alliances.
The announcement followed meetings between Canada’s Foreign Minister Anita Anand, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. Anand highlighted the mutual agreement on the importance of elevating the relationship.
Relations between India and Canada had been tense for nearly two years after former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist. India denied the allegations and accused Ottawa of supporting separatist groups within its borders.
Earlier this year, Trudeau’s successor, Mark Carney, hosted Modi at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. Canada remains a key destination for Indian temporary foreign workers and students, as well as a significant market for pulses like lentils and yellow peas. Despite the strong ties, concerns still exist about fringe groups in Canada advocating for an independent Sikh state, Khalistan, separate from India.
-
Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau Spotted Sharing a Passionate Kiss on a Yacht
Digital Phablet – Katy Perry, an American singer and songwriter, was caught on camera sharing an intimate moment with former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Also Read: Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom reportedly split just before Jeff Bezos’s wedding.
Justin Trudeau was spotted passionately kissing Perry on the cheek as they enjoyed time aboard a private yacht. Katy Perry, who recently ended her engagement with Orlando Bloom, was seen publicly with Canada’s former Prime Minister.
A social media post suggested, “Katy Perry and Justin Trudeau are dating 😳,” with a picture attached, fueling more speculation.
The pair first appeared together last July at an upscale restaurant in Montreal, sparking rumors about their relationship status. Later, Justin and Katy were seen on her 24-meter yacht, the Caravelle, off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, according to the Daily Mail.
It’s noteworthy that Trudeau and his ex-wife, Sophie Grégoire, who married in 2005 and share three children, announced their separation on August 2, 2023, ending 18 years of marriage.
[Image of Katy Perry]
The couple’s relationship has attracted considerable media attention, especially following their first public outing.
-
Britain, Canada, Australia Recognize Palestine State
British, Canadian, and Australian leaders all announced the recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday, driven by frustration over the Gaza conflict and aiming to promote a two-state resolution. However, this move is expected to provoke anger from Israel and its primary supporter, the United States.
This decision places these countries alongside approximately 140 other nations that support Palestinian aspirations for an independent homeland beyond Israeli-occupied lands.
Prime Minister Starmer stated, “Today, to foster hope for peace between Palestinians and Israelis and to support a two-state solution, the United Kingdom officially recognizes the State of Palestine.” Both Canada and Australia also confirmed their recognition of Palestine today, with additional countries anticipated to follow during this week’s United Nations General Assembly session in New York.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada now recognizes Palestine, emphasizing, “Canada recognizes the State of Palestine and stands ready to work together toward a peaceful future for both Palestine and Israel.”
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted that recognizing Palestine is part of an effort to re-energize negotiations for a two-state solution, which begins with a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
In July, Britain issued Israel an ultimatum, stating that unless Israel took measures to end the dire situation in Gaza, it would recognize a Palestinian state. This stance put Starmer at odds with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Husam Zomlot, head of Palestine’s London mission, described the recognition as a “long-overdue acknowledgment” that fulfills Britain’s responsibility. He added, “This marks an irreversible step toward justice, peace, and righting historic wrongs.”
Starmer had previously set conditions for recognition, including a ceasefire with Hamas, increased aid into Gaza, no annexation of the West Bank, and a commitment to a peace process leading to a two-state outcome. However, since that declaration, the situation has worsened, with Israel advancing settlement plans and the assault on Gaza continuing, leading many lawmakers to criticize the move amid rising civilian suffering.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that a Palestinian state will never be established. Public opinion in London remains divided. Some see recognition as a necessary acknowledgment of Palestinians’ right to a homeland, while others believe it could undermine Israel or support militant groups like Hamas.
Historian Victor Kattan argued that Britain’s recognition should be accompanied by an apology and reparations, citing historic responsibilities dating back to the 1917 Balfour Declaration. This acknowledgment could lead to upgrades in the Palestinian mission’s status in London and possibly restrictions on products from Israeli settlements.
Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin emphasized that recognition is a vital step toward Palestinian sovereignty, bringing the goal of independence closer. “This is not the end but a significant move forward,” she said, amid ongoing conflicts and military campaigns in Gaza.
-
Trump Halts Canada Trade Talks Amid U.S. Tech Firm Tax Dispute
US President Donald Trump at a ‘One Big Beautiful’ event at the White House in Washington, D.C. on June 26, 2025. — Reuters - New U.S. tariffs on Canada coming in one week.
- U.S. tech firms impacted by Canada’s digital services tax.
- Washington and Beijing agree on a framework for rare earth trade.
On Friday, President Donald Trump announced he is halting trade talks with Canada in response to taxes affecting American technology companies. He added that Ottawa will be informed of the new tariff rate within a week.
Trump’s comments were directed at Canada’s digital services tax introduced last year, which is projected to generate CAD 5.9 billion (USD 4.2 billion) over five years.
Although the tax isn’t new, the Computer & Communications Industry Association stated that U.S. service providers would soon bear a multi-billion dollar burden in Canada come June 30.
This 3% tax is aimed at large corporations like Alphabet, Amazon, and Meta that offer digital services to Canadian consumers, and the U.S. has previously requested discussions to resolve the issue.
“Due to this outrageous tax, we are immediately terminating all trade discussions with Canada,” Trump declared in a post on his Truth Social platform. He labeled Canada as “very difficult” for trade purposes.
While Canada had previously been spared from some of Trump’s broader tariffs, including a 10% levy affecting almost all U.S. trading partners, it is still subject to a different set of tariffs.
Trump has also imposed hefty tariffs on imports of steel, aluminum, and automobiles.
Last week, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney indicated that Canada would modify its 25% counter-tariffs on U.S. steel and aluminum if a bilateral trade agreement was not finalized within 30 days.
“We will keep negotiating these complex matters in the best interests of Canadians,” Carney stated on Friday, noting that he had not spoken with Trump since the president’s announcement.
Progress with China
Trump’s latest stance toward Canada came shortly after Washington and Beijing confirmed they had finalized a framework for advancing trade discussions.
According to Beijing, the U.S. would lift “restrictive measures,” while China agreed to “review and approve” items governed by export controls.
A significant concern for the U.S. in its negotiations with China has been securing a stable supply of rare earth elements, which are crucial for products like electric vehicles, hard drives, and national defense equipment.
China, a major producer of these elements, began requiring export licenses in early April, which many interpreted as a reaction to the tariffs imposed by Trump.
The two nations reached an agreement following discussions in Geneva in May to temporarily lower retaliatory duties on each other’s products.
China also pledged to reduce some non-tariff countermeasures, although U.S. officials later accused Beijing of violating the agreement and delaying export license approvals for rare earths.
After further discussions in London this month, both sides agreed to a framework to uphold their Geneva agreement.
A White House official informed AFP on Thursday that the Trump administration and China had come to “an additional understanding” regarding the framework to carry out the Geneva accord.
This announcement followed Trump mentioning a trade deal with China at an event, although specifics were not disclosed.
Under this arrangement, China stated it would “review and approve applications for export control items that comply with legal requirements,” while the U.S. would correspondingly eliminate a series of restrictions against China.
Potential Future Agreements
Several economies, excluding China, are facing a July 9 deadline for increased tariffs set to rise from the current rate of 10%.
It’s unclear whether other nations facing these heightened U.S. tariffs will manage to reach agreements that could prevent them before the deadline.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent mentioned Friday that Washington aims to finalize its trade agenda by September, indicating the possibility of additional agreements, although discussions may extend beyond July.
In an interview with Fox Business, Bessent emphasized that there are 18 primary partners with whom the U.S. is focusing on trade pacts.
“If we can finalize agreements with 10 or 12 of these key 18, there are also another 20 important relationships to consider. I believe we could have trade matters wrapped up by Labor Day,” he commented, referring to the U.S. holiday on September 1.
On Thursday, the White House indicated that the July deadline might be extended, or the president could establish a tariff rate for nations that do not reach an agreement.
Major indexes on Wall Street, which initially gained ground on hopes of achieving deals, subsequently dropped after Trump canceled the discussions with Canada.
-
Canadian Intel Claims India Engages in Foreign Interference
Demonstrators protest outside the Indian consulate in Vancouver, Canada, one week after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau raised concerns about India’s possible involvement in the murder of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, on September 25, 2023. — Reuters
- The Canadian Prime Minister and Modi agree to restore senior diplomats.
- Former Prime Minister Trudeau accused India of being involved in the Sikh separatist’s murder.
- A report indicates that transnational repression “influences India’s actions.”
According to a report released Wednesday, India has been identified as a source of foreign interference, as Canada’s intelligence agency stated that it plays a role in national security matters. This announcement came right after a summit in Canada where the leaders of India and Canada pledged to enhance their diplomatic relationship.
At the G7 summit in Alberta on Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described their discussions as constructive, agreeing to reinstate the diplomats both sides had previously recalled.
Carney faced backlash from parts of the Sikh community in Canada for inviting Modi to the G7 gathering.
Relations between Canada and India have become strained since former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of being connected to the June 18, 2023 assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader residing in Canada.
In response, Modi’s administration has denied any involvement in Nijjar’s death and accused Canada of providing refuge to Sikh separatists.
The intelligence report highlighted that transnational repression is a significant factor in India’s activities in Canada, while noting that the foremost counter-intelligence risk to Canada comes from China, followed by Russia, Iran, and Pakistan.
In October, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported having communicated over a dozen threats targeting Sikhs advocating for an independent homeland from India.
The report from the Canadian Security Intelligence Service stated, “Indian officials, including their local proxies, engage in various activities aimed at influencing Canadian communities and political figures. These activities seek to align Canada’s perspectives with India’s interests on critical issues, especially regarding the Indian government’s stance toward supporters of an independent Khalistan.”
The Indian High Commission and the Chinese embassy in Canada have not yet responded to requests for comments.
-
Cristiano Ronaldo Presents Trump With Signed Jersey and Message
Cristiano Ronaldo Gifts Signed Jersey to Donald Trump at G7 Summit
Portuguese football legend Cristiano Ronaldo recently made headlines after presenting US President Donald Trump with a signed jersey featuring a meaningful message. The exchange occurred during the G7 summit held in Kananaskis, Canada, where the gift was delivered by António Costa, the President of the European Council.
The signed jersey bore a personal note from Ronaldo, stating, "To President Donald J. Trump, playing for peace." Costa later shared the moment on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, highlighting the theme of unity by saying, "Playing for peace. As a team."
Ronaldo’s Gesture and Its Significance
Trump’s special assistant and communications advisor, Margo Martin, also shared the moment through a video, capturing Trump’s reaction as he appreciated the jersey. "Oh, I like that. Playing for peace," Trump remarked while displaying the jersey.
This gesture is particularly notable as Cristiano Ronaldo has consistently been an advocate for peace, using his social platforms to address pressing human rights issues like the ongoing conflicts in Gaza. Many observers on social media have speculated that the timing of this gift may relate to rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly regarding Israel and Iran.
As Trump participates in the G7 discussions alongside other global leaders, including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, the event underscores the importance of diplomacy and peaceful dialogue among nations.
An Emphasis on Peace
Ronaldo’s thoughtful gesture aligns with his ongoing commitment to promoting peace and humanitarian values through his influence as a sports icon. The gift is not just a token of sportsmanship but a reminder of the potential for global leadership to foster unity and understanding during tumultuous times.
-
G7 Summit in Canada: Leaders Seek to Sidestep Trump Tensions
A worker sets up a sign ahead of the G7 summit at a satellite venue in Banff, Alberta, Canada, on June 14, 2025. — Reuters - G7 Leaders’ Summit to run through Tuesday.
- No formal joint declaration anticipated.
- Expected attendees include leaders from Ukraine, India, and more.
The Group of Seven leaders will meet in the Canadian Rockies starting Sunday, amid rising tensions with the United States over issues like foreign policy and trade. Host Canada is aiming to sidestep conflicts with President Trump.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has stated that his main goals include reinforcing peace and security, developing supply chains for critical minerals, and creating employment opportunities, while contentious topics such as U.S. tariffs and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine are likely to dominate discussions.
On Thursday, U.S. ally Israel launched a series of strikes against Iran, undermining Trump’s diplomatic initiative to avert such actions.
The summit is set to take place in Kananaskis, a mountain resort located approximately 90 kilometers west of Calgary.
During Canada’s last hosting in 2018, Trump departed early after publicly criticizing then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, calling him “very dishonest and weak,” and prompted the U.S. delegation to retract its agreement on the final communique.
“This will be a successful summit if Trump doesn’t have an outburst that derails the entire gathering. Anything beyond that would be a bonus,” noted Roland Paris, an international affairs professor at the University of Ottawa who served as a foreign policy adviser to Trudeau.
Trump has previously raised the idea of annexing Canada, arriving amid Carney’s threats of retaliation if Washington continues imposing tariffs on steel and aluminum.
“The ideal situation would be to avoid any major disruptions,” remarked Josh Lipsky, chair of international economics at the Atlantic Council and a former White House and State Department official.
Carney’s office refrained from commenting on how the recent Israeli strikes might influence the summit.
No Joint Communique
Sources revealed Canada has abandoned plans for a traditional joint communique, opting instead for chair summaries to minimize conflicts and maintain U.S. engagement.
A senior Canadian official informed reporters that Ottawa aims to emphasize actions the seven member nations—Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States—can take collectively.
Canadian Senator Peter Boehm, a seasoned diplomat who represented Trudeau during the 2018 summit, indicated that this year’s gathering would be extended to facilitate bilateral meetings with the U.S. president.
Leaders from Ukraine, Mexico, India, Australia, South Africa, South Korea, and Brazil are expected to participate at various points from Sunday to Tuesday, all eager to converse with Trump.
“Many will want to discuss their specific interests and concerns with President Trump,” Boehm added during a phone interview.
A high-ranking U.S. official stated on Friday that discussions would tackle trade, the global economy, critical minerals, migration, drug trafficking, wildfires, international security, artificial intelligence, and energy stability.
“The president is keen to pursue his objectives in these areas, including making trade relationships fair and reciprocal,” the official commented.
The visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to the Oval Office in February ended in conflict, serving as a cautionary tale for other world leaders in their dealings with Trump.
However, diplomats maintain that the frustration of engaging with the Trump administration has made some countries more eager to assert their own positions.
Canada, a steadfast supporter of Ukraine, hopes for a significant outcome despite Trump’s promise to resolve the conflict with Russia swiftly, as diplomatic dialogue has faltered.
One Ukrainian official involved in summit preparations mentioned that hopes for a strong statement of support for Ukraine have diminished, and that merely achieving a cordial meeting between Trump and Zelensky would be considered a success.
A European official noted that both the G7 summit and the NATO meeting in The Hague later in June present an opportunity to underscore the necessity for Trump to advance a sanctions bill designed by U.S. senators, along with a new European initiative aimed at pressuring Russia for a ceasefire and broader negotiations.
Early Test
This will be Trump’s first international summit and may provide early indications of his willingness to collaborate with allies on common issues, stated Max Bergmann, director at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
“The primary question is whether the United States remains committed to formats like the G7. That will be the significant test,” said Bergmann.
French President Emmanuel Macron described his relationship with Trump as good but straightforward, despite differences on issues such as Ukraine and climate change.
On Friday, Macron announced that a United Nations conference, co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia to work toward a two-state solution between Israel and Palestine, has been postponed.
-
Sikhs in Canada Rally Against Modi’s G7 Invitation
Sure! Here’s a rewritten version of the content in American English:
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi attends a press conference with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Bangkok, Thailand, April 3, 2025. — Reuters/FileMembers of Canada’s Sikh community, who were warned by law enforcement about potential threats to their lives, are outraged over Ottawa’s invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the G7 summit in Alberta. They claim the Indian government is behind the threats.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney extended the invitation to Modi, despite India not being a G7 member. The summit, beginning this Sunday, will mark Modi’s first trip to Canada in a decade and poses a diplomatic challenge for Carney, who is relatively new to politics.
Relations between Canada and India have been strained since former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of involvement in the June 18, 2023, assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh activist in Canada.
The Indian government has refuted these claims and accused Canada of offering sanctuary to Sikh separatists.
“Many in the community are expressing their outrage,” said Sikh activist Moninder Singh, a friend of Nijjar. Singh, along with other Sikh leaders, plans to protest in Ottawa this Saturday.
As Canada engages in a trade dispute with the United States, Carney is seeking to strengthen alliances globally and diversify Canadian exports. He mentioned that India’s role in international supply chains was instrumental in the decision to invite Modi.
India’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, indicated that a meeting between Modi and Carney would provide a critical opportunity to discuss bilateral and global issues and potentially reset relations.
Threats to Sikhs
However, Singh, who resides in British Columbia, feels that the rationale for Modi’s invitation is inadequate. He has received multiple police warnings regarding threats to his life, which once forced him to leave his home to ensure his family’s safety.
“On both personal and community levels, it feels deeply disrespectful. It seems like Sikh lives are less important than accommodating the world’s fifth-largest economy,” he stated.
Carney’s office has yet to respond to requests for comments.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police reported in October that they had communicated numerous threats to activists like Singh who advocate for a Sikh homeland in India.
In another tense moment under Trudeau’s leadership, Canada expelled six Indian diplomats, linking them to Nijjar’s murder and accusing the Indian government of targeting dissidents in Canada through various nefarious means. India retaliated by expelling six Canadian diplomats and dismissed the allegations as absurd and politically motivated, asserting that Canada lacks proof connecting Modi to these threats.
The rising tensions have put Canada’s Sikh community, the largest outside of India’s Punjab state, in a challenging spotlight.
Singh believes there should have been conditions attached to Modi’s invitation. “Any meeting should have included commitments from Modi and his government to take accountability for the incidents and cooperate, but that didn’t happen.”
Carney mentioned that Modi had agreed to a dialogue on law enforcement, while Jaiswal stated that Indian and Canadian law enforcement will continue to collaborate in certain areas.
Some activists and politicians in Canada have accused Carney of prioritizing economic interests over human rights. Nevertheless, Sanjay Ruparelia, a political science professor at Toronto Metropolitan University, argues that Carney is simply being realistic. “His approach has been pragmatic, and this is a practical, realpolitik decision.”
Feel free to modify any part further!