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RCMP Open Investigation into Chinese Police Stations in Canada, Trudeau Backpedaling
The RCMP in Canada has told a press briefing they are investigating reports of undeclared Chinese police stations in the province of Quebec. They stated they are investigating 2 Montreal locations believed to be operating on behalf of the Communist Party of China.
Human rights organizations have accused China of using the stations to threaten and monitor Chinese nationals in other countries. China has denied operating the stations, referring to them as “service centers” for its nationals living abroad.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told reporters Thursday that they are a “very serious concern” for his government.
“We’re in the process of ensuring that the RCMP follows up on this and that our intelligence systems take this seriously,” he said.
According to the Spain-based NGO Safeguard Defenders, which monitors disappearances in China, the stations are among at least 100 in 53 countries worldwide, including the United Kingdom and the United States.
In a report last year, the non-profit said the stations are part of efforts by China’s regime to “harass, threaten, intimidate and force targets to return to China for persecution”.
According to the report, Chinese public security bureaus established “overseas police service stations” across the globe, including two in London and one in Glasgow. It established stations in Toronto, Vancouver, and New York.
The RCMP confirmed in November that they were looking into reports of such service stations operating in the Greater Toronto Area.
The federal force asked Chinese Canadians who may have been targeted by “alleged Chinese police stations” to come forward on Thursday.
“These activities, as well as any other form of intimidation, harassment, or targeting of diaspora communities or individuals in Canada,” RCMP Sgt Charles Poirier said on Thursday.
Federal authorities have previously expressed concern about reports of such stations operating in Canada and the United States.
Attempts by the Communist Party of China to establish a police presence on US soil, according to FBI Director Christopher Wray, “violates the sovereignty and circumvents standard judicial and law enforcement cooperation processes,” he told a US Senate hearing in November.
According to Safeguard Defenders, an alleged Chinese police station has been set up on Broadway in New York City.
According to Chinese embassies in the United States and Canada, the locations are alleged overseas service stations established during the pandemic to assist nationals abroad with driver’s license renewal and other similar matters.
However, Jing-Jie Chen, a Safeguard Defenders researcher, told the BBC that he was skeptical of the Communist Party of China’s explanation.
“If you truly want to support your nationals abroad, you can do so through official channels; you don’t have to do it undercover,” he explained.
The RCMP investigation comes in the wake of allegations that China attempted to meddle in Canada’s two most recent federal elections, reports that have strained relations between the two countries.
Early Wednesday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s main line of defense against accusations that he ignored specific CSIS warnings about Chinese government funding of Canadian political candidates began to fray.
It started with the leak of another secret document: an unredacted committee report never publicly released that, according to Global News, explicitly advised Trudeau’s office of covert funding of candidates ahead of the 2019 federal election.
It went on from there, with Trudeau deflecting questions about what he knew and when by referring to the committee whose report had just been leaked.
And it concluded with an Opposition grilling in the Commons that was a more effective and less inflammatory prosecution of the Liberal case by Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.
On Wednesday, Trudeau reiterated that the national security and intelligence committee of parliamentarians (NSICOP), whose members have top-secret security clearance, is the best place to weigh highly sensitive CSIS information on foreign interference.
Despite the latest allegations, the committee was a key component of Trudeau’s announcement of new measures to reassure Canadians that their elections were free and fair.
He had asked NSICOP on Monday to look into foreign interference in the previous two campaigns after his government had been hammered in the House of Commons for days.
That committee of MPs and senators is sworn to protect official secrets and has experience and expertise in the field. It investigated foreign interference and submitted a report to the prime minister’s office in August 2019, just two weeks before a federal election was called.
However, the fact that a version of its classified work was leaked to Global News (essentially re-capping the charge that the Chinese government directed attempts to influence nomination campaigns) raises serious concerns, regardless of where the leak originated.
It calls into question Trudeau’s claim that the appropriate body can be trusted to conduct the study that the prime minister claims will restore trust in the electoral system and its safeguards, as well as whether the Trudeau government should immediately appoint a commission of inquiry.
“The entire system is built on trust,” said Stephanie Carvin, a former CSIS analyst and current professor at the Norman Paterson School of International Affairs. “And if that trust is broken,” she says, “people may not want to pass on information from a sensitive source,” or information transfer may be “slowed down.”
“And I don’t think that works for the prime minister,” she added.
It’s unclear whether the unredacted report Global News claimed to have seen came from a parliamentarian, a member of the committee’s secretariat, CSIS, or another agency with access to shared intelligence. It’s unclear whether this was the committee’s final or draft report.
The committee’s MPs and senators have access to secret materials only in a secure environment. They cannot take copies or bring cell phones, tablets, or anything else into the building.
Any unredacted report produced by the committee is sent to the PMO, which forwards it to the national security agencies — CSIS or the foreign electronic intelligence agency, CSE — to screen out information detrimental to national security, harming international relations and defense, or violating solicitor-client privilege, as required by law.
Neither CSIS nor the RCMP responded to questions from the Toronto Star about whether the latest leak is being investigated or whether it undermines their confidence in NSICOP.
The committee’s secretariat said it “is aware of media describing access to a classified version of one of the Committee’s reviews, and cannot confirm or deny the accuracy of that reporting. We are unable to make any further comments at this time.”
House leader Mark Holland, the Liberal cabinet minister in charge of the committee, did not respond to questions sent to his spokesman.
The most recent allegation that Trudeau was aware of Chinese funding and interference as early as 2019 sparked a new round of outrage in the Commons, which Trudeau struggled to refute.
Poilievre dropped the nasty partisan rhetoric from the day before, accusing Trudeau of working against Canadian interests and “covering up” support from Communist rulers in Beijing.
Instead, Poilievre attacked Trudeau like former NDP leader Thomas Mulcair during the Senate expenses scandal, asking basic questions, following non-answers with more “yes or no” questions, and summarizing Trudeau’s precarious position for MPs.
Trudeau refused to say whether anyone in his party, governing caucus or cabinet had received money from a Chinese ruling party-directed influence network.
He only reiterated what he said last fall: “I have no information on federal candidates receiving money from China.”
Poilievre drove home the point that the prime minister “used the tiny technical term ‘candidate,’ which only applies to a limited scenario 30 days before an election. He refuses to answer whether his party or any other received funds directed by Beijing’s communist dictatorship.”
Trudeau stated that Canadians could put their trust in a soon-to-be-named outside expert who would advise on whether or not an inquiry is required.
“To be honest, I know that no matter what I say, Canadians continue to have questions about what we did and didn’t do, which is why an independent special rapporteur will be able to look at the entire landscape and dig deeper into everything anyone knew at any point,” Trudeau told reporters.
According to NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, the latest allegations are “eroding public trust” in Canadian institutions.
“Right now, the prime minister seems like he’s hiding something, and he could just answer those questions by launching a public inquiry. It’s independent, open, and will address Canadians’ concerns,” Singh explained.
However, Singh refuses to make foreign interference a deal-breaker for his party’s support of Trudeau’s minority government, even though he raised the issue with the prime minister in a recent meeting.
Green Party co-leader Elizabeth May believes a public inquiry is required immediately and that Trudeau’s other plan to appoint a “special rapporteur” to study whether an inquiry is required will fail. “That’s not a hunting dog.”
Trudeau is now facing criticism from his caucus over how the government handles the situation.
“In my opinion, this is far larger” than allegations of election interference, said Scarborough-Guildwood MP John McKay, who chairs the Commons national defense committee.
“The Chinese government is an existential threat to the country on multiple levels, and we must confront that.”
McKay stated that it is “not for me to say” whether his government is doing enough or whether a public inquiry into election meddling by China through its consulate offices in Canada is necessary.
“It’s bigger than the election,” McKay explained. “It’s in universities. It can be found at police stations. It can be found at the Confucius Institutes. It is concerned with resource exploitation, etc., etc. I believe it is much larger than that.”
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News
Donald Trump Talks About Taxes, Not Anger, In His First Interview With a Network TV Station.
(VOR News) – In his initial network interview following his election victory, President-elect Donald Trump underscored the importance of tariffs during his early days in office, minimising his previous emphasis on retaliation against purported foes.
Trump articulated his commitment to fulfilling his primary campaign promises, which encompassed pardoning the January 6 rioters, implementing substantial tax reductions, and deporting all individuals residing in the United States illegally, during an interview with Kristen Welker on NBC News’ Meet the Press.
Trump expressed his desire to pursue a legislative resolution for “Dreamers” to reside in the country legally and affirmed that he would not impose restrictions on access to abortion medications.
Dreamers are undocumented immigrants who received legal status as minors by executive order issued by former President Barack Obama.
In answer to an inquiry about targeting President Joe Biden after his inauguration on January 20, Donald Trump asserted he would not focus on the “past.”
Trump stated, “Retribution will be through success,” as conveyed to Welker. My objective is to reduce expenses. As a result, I achieved success in grocery shopping and at the border.
Trump threatened to investigate, arrest, or penalize Biden, his purported opponent.
The president-elect reaffirmed his commitment to implementing elevated tariffs on China, Canada, and Mexico, the nation’s principal trading partners. Trump said, “I cannot assure anything,” when enquiring if this would elevate consumer prices, as numerous experts have warned. I cannot guarantee tomorrow.
The president-elect countered that tariffs “cost Americans nothing” and might even serve as a diplomatic tool when Welker further questioned him on the fact that his inaugural administration’s tariffs incurred a $80 billion expense for Americans.
“By stating, ‘If you wish to engage in conflict, that is acceptable,’ I have averted wars through the imposition of tariffs.” Donald Trump asserted, “However, both of you will incur tariffs to the United States at a rate of 100%,” without referencing any wars he had averted.
Immigration and fiscal reductions
Trump has often referenced tariffs as a means for the federal government to generate revenue to compensate for the deficits resulting from tax reductions implemented during his first term.
Through the Department of Government Efficiency, an external body chaired by tech entrepreneur Elon Musk and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, he has committed to substantially decreasing federal expenditure. Donald Trump asserts that Medicare and Social Security are not at risk of reduction.
Trump asserted, “I have informed individuals that we will not alter Social Security, except to enhance its efficiency.” “However, the populace will receive what is allotted to them.”
Concerning health care, Trump did not offer a specific plan.
During the initial months of Donald Trump’s administration, efforts were concentrated on the repeal and replacement of the Affordable Care Act.
“Obamacare is ineffective,” Donald Trump said when asked what his plans for 2020 are.
If a superior answer is identified, I would present it to the Democrats and others, and I would proceed with action.
Trump maintains a focus on immigration. During the NBC interview, he reiterated his intentions to execute extensive deportations of persons unlawfully residing in the United States. Donald Trump asserted that he would commence with convicted criminals, but would not limit his actions to them.
Trump responded, “I believe it is necessary, although it is a challenging and arduous task.” “However, it is essential to establish laws, rules, and regulations.” They unlawfully entered the country.
Trump affirmed, “I do,” in response to a query regarding his desire for Dreamers—individuals brought to the country as children and currently participating in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program—to remain in the nation. I anticipate reaching consensus.
Concerning abortion, Donald Trump asserted that he would not impede access to abortion drugs and recognised the political significance of the matter. “Will you limit access to abortion pills during your tenure in office?” Welker enquired.
“I will likely maintain the same position I have articulated for the past two years,” Trump asserted. “The response is negative.”
SOURCE: NPR
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Macron of France Greets Donald Trump at a Grand Presidential Reception in Paris.
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Salman Ahmad is a seasoned freelance writer who contributes insightful articles to VORNews. With years of experience in journalism, he possesses a knack for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with readers. Salman’s writing style strikes a balance between depth and accessibility, allowing him to tackle complex topics while maintaining clarity.
News
Macron of France Greets Donald Trump at a Grand Presidential Reception in Paris.
(VOR News) – French President Emmanuel Macron greeted Donald Trump to Paris on Saturday with presidential grandeur following a four-year hiatus.
Claiming to be in a “a little crazy” world as they met one-on-one before Notre Dame Cathedral’s reopening five years following a catastrophic fire, Donald Trump, the future president, said.
As Trump arrived at the Elysee Palace, the official house of the French president, Macron extended numerous handshakes and back-patted him. Declaring it “a great honour,” Donald Trump hailed their “great relationship.”
As they met one-on-one before Notre Dame Cathedral reopened five years following a catastrophic fire, Trump suggested the two would talk about a “a little crazy” world.
Like the French do for sitting American presidents, the palace spread out a red carpet. Trump noted before he came in, “The world feels wild right now.” We will explore that.
Accepting the Paris invitation, Donald Trump asserted Macron had done “a wonderful job ensuring that Notre Dame has been restored to its full glory, and even more so”. Today will be unique for each of us! A 2019 fire almost destroyed the 861-year-old monument.
More than 20 French government security agents were guarding Trump alongside the Secret Service, according to the French national police. Trump’s procession was guarded from drones by a specially equipped French police truck.
Scores of international VIPs were expected at the Notre Dame reopening, hence security was more rigorous than usual outside the U.S. Embassy and other Paris sites.
Despite Donald Trump’s loss last month, Macron has tried to repair his relationship.
Macron’s staff minimised the offer, citing invitations to other former leaders.
Declaring Trump invited as president-elect of a “friendly nation,” Macron’s office added, “This is in no way exceptional. We’ve done it before.”
Red carpet treatment by Macron and other European leaders revealed their aim to placate Trump prior to his inauguration. Trump enjoys pomp and spectacle. During his first tenure as president, he paid Paris a guest of honour visit for Bastille Day events. Macron Later on, Trump insisted he wanted a US large military exhibition.
Democratic President Joe Biden is also invited but won not be present. White House communications secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said first lady Jill Biden will represent the US due to a scheduling issue.
Trump last visited Jill Biden at the White House for the customary farewell-incoming president’s conference following the election.
During Donald Trump trip to France, Macron and other European leaders are trying to convince him to help Ukraine fight Russia’s intrusion. According to Macron’s office, Macron and Donald Trump would discuss Middle East conflicts as well as others.
Prince William and Jill Biden will meet prior to Notre Dame, according to the British royal house.
Macron would meet Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine. It depends on whether Trump meets Zelenskyy. Future conversations worry Kyiv as Trump has vowed to swiftly stop the war on Ukraine but has not said how.
On a two-day trip earlier this week, Zelenskyy’s top advisor Andriy Yermak visited important Donald Trump team members to build confidence in the incoming government. Requesting anonymity, a senior Ukrainian official hailed the discussions as successful but omitted specifics.
Under Donald Trump’s first term, France-US relations deteriorated.
Trump paid many trips to France and introduced Macron at his first state dinner. Macron attacked Trump for challenging NATO’s necessity and America’s dedication to the mutual defence agreement, therefore endangering the alliance.
If France taxed American businesses during the 2024 presidential campaign, Trump often mimicked Macron’s accent and threatened to levy high taxes on wine and champagne bottles shipped to the U.S.
Among the first international leaders to congratulate Trump last month was Macron. Noted for its stained glass, the Notre Dame fire destroyed its spire in 2019, endangering one of the most iconic architectural sites worldwide. At the time Trump was president.
“So horrible to watch the massive fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris,” he wrote, counselling Paris. “Perhaps flying water tanks could help eradicate it. Be fast!” he advised.
Shortly afterwards, French officials reported that “all means” were being employed to put out the flames, “except water-bombing aircrafts which, if used, could lead to the collapse of the entire structure of the cathedral.”
Last weekend, Trump declared he would name Jared Kushner’s father, Charles Kushner, ambassador to France. Pioneers in such a great role were Franklin and Jefferson.
SOURCE: NPR
SEE ALSO:
Elon Musk Expended Over $260 Million To Facilitate The Election Of Donald Trump.
The US Court of Appeals Affirms the TikTok Ban While Dismissing a Free Speech Challenge.
Salman Ahmad is a seasoned freelance writer who contributes insightful articles to VORNews. With years of experience in journalism, he possesses a knack for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with readers. Salman’s writing style strikes a balance between depth and accessibility, allowing him to tackle complex topics while maintaining clarity.
News
Elon Musk Expended Over $260 Million To Facilitate The Election Of Donald Trump.
(VOR News) – Elon Musk, the wealthiest man in the world, is said to have made a significant contribution to the re-election campaign of Donald Trump, President-elect of the United States of America, in the year 2024.
This information has been reported. Specifically, the information in question was collected from the Federal Election Commission by means of their most current filings.
More than $259 million was contributed by Elon Musk to the campaign of Donald Trump, which he subsequently used to support his own campaign.
Elon Musk contributed a total of $269.
The Chief Executive Officer of Tesla and the owner of SpaceX is now in the position of being one of the top donors in the history of a presidential campaign in the United States.
This is due to the massive financial support that has been provided to him. Consequently, this contributes to the strengthening of his power in the area of the Republican Party. One of the corporations that own Tesla is SpaceX, which is a corporation.
There was a contribution of two hundred and thirty-nine million dollars made by Elon Musk to America PAC, which is a super PAC that he founded with the goal of assisting in the mobilisation of votes in support of Trump. This represents a big new development that has taken place.
RBG PAC is an organisation that makes an effort to persuade voters that President Trump, who is 78 years old, would not sign into law a national abortion ban. It is alleged that Musk, who is 53 years old, contributed an additional twenty million dollars to RBG PAC.
There is strong suspicion that Elon Musk made this financial contribution to RBG PAC. As can be seen from the documentation that was handed over to the Federal Election Commission (FEC), Elon Musk was the one who made this donation.
This organisation got its name from the late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who was well-known for her advocacy of abortion rights. Ginsburg was the inspiration behind the name of this organisation. In addition to being a well-known liberal personality, Ginsburg was also well-known for her advocacy of the right to abortion.
Ginsburg was a significant figure in the feminist community and a prominent member of the liberal community.
In addition to being the owner of the social networking platform known as X, Elon Musk has emerged as a prominent counsellor to the transition team that Trump has gathered. This is a significant development.
The platform’s owner is Elon Musk, so keep that in mind.
Trump has nominated him, together with Vivek Ramaswamy, a former candidate for the Republican presidential nomination and an entrepreneur, to lead a task group that will strive to minimise the amount of money that the government spends and the number of rules that it imposes. Ramaswamy is also an entrepreneur.
Ramaswamy is also an entrepreneur in his way. In his own way, Ramaswamy is likewise recognised as an entrepreneur.
Thursday was the day that Elon Musk and Ramaswamy met with senators on Capitol Hill in an effort to obtain the significant cutbacks in expenses that Trump has asked.
The gathering was held on Thursday of this week. On the other hand, in order for them to be successful in their ambitions, they will want the support of these politicians.
These two individuals have not only advocated for the termination of thousands of federal employees, but they have also battled for the reduction of regulations and the elimination of programs that have had their authorisation revoked, such as healthcare for veterans. In addition to this, they have campaigned for the dismissal of all employees and employees of the government.
At the Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, where the president-elect has been residing during the transition, Musk has been a frequent visitor and a close confidante of Trump.
Musk has attended the residence on multiple occasions. Many times, Elon Musk has been seen on the premises of the mansion. In addition to that, Musk has been a frequent visitor to the home on a number of occasions.
SOURCE: TN
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The US Court of Appeals Affirms the TikTok Ban While Dismissing a Free Speech Challenge.
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Salman Ahmad is a seasoned freelance writer who contributes insightful articles to VORNews. With years of experience in journalism, he possesses a knack for crafting compelling narratives that resonate with readers. Salman’s writing style strikes a balance between depth and accessibility, allowing him to tackle complex topics while maintaining clarity.
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