CanadaMar 18, 2026
Ontario urges B.C., Quebec to drop EV sales targets, citing competitiveness concerns
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is calling on the governments of British Columbia and Quebec to eliminate their electric-vehicle sales targets, arguing the policies are undermining Canada’s economic competitiveness.
According to letters sent Wednesday to the two premiers, Ford said Ontario’s auto sector employs nearly 100,000 people and remains a key economic driver. He warned that differing provincial mandates on zero-emission vehicles risk creating what he described as a “fragmented and uncompetitive” national environment.
Ford’s request follows recent changes in both provinces. Quebec h
WorldMar 18, 2026
Israel claims senior Iranian intelligence officials killed in overnight strikes
Israeli authorities say a series of overnight airstrikes on Iran targeted senior intelligence leadership and key energy infrastructure, as hostilities continue between Israel and Iran.
According to a statement from Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, the strikes killed Iran’s intelligence minister, Esmail Khatib, along with several senior officials from the ministry. The claim has not been independently verified, and Iranian authorities have not confirmed any casualties as of publication time.
Israeli officials also said their aircraft struck gas infrastructure in southern Iran. The re
AlbertaMar 18, 2026
Alberta premier confirms Saudi government covered private flight during 2024 trip
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she travelled on a private aircraft arranged by the Saudi government during an official trip to the Middle East last fall, adding that the travel was approved in advance by the province’s ethics commissioner.
Smith confirmed the arrangement Tuesday during a legislative committee meeting while responding to questions tied to Alberta’s 2026 budget. The premier said the non-commercial flight was proposed by Saudi officials to allow for more efficient travel between engagements.
According to Smith, the trip included meetings in Saudi Arabia and the United Ar
BCMar 18, 2026
Free public viewing announced for FIFA World Cup matches at Vancouver fan festival
The City of Vancouver and the British Columbia government say general admission to live World Cup match screenings at Hastings Park will be free during the FIFA Fan Festival in June.
According to a joint government announcement, spectators will be able to watch matches at the festival site and amphitheatre general floor without charge. The general floor is expected to accommodate about 2,600 per match on a first-come, first-served basis.
Officials said reserved seating and fast-track entry options will be available for purchase, but no fee will be required for standard entry. The FIFA Fan Fest
CanadaMar 18, 2026
Bank of Canada holds key interest rate at 2.25% amid global uncertainty
The Bank of Canada has held its benchmark interest rate at 2.25 per cent following its latest policy meeting, marking the third consecutive decision to leave rates unchanged.
According to the central bank’s statement, Governor Tiff Macklem cited ongoing global economic uncertainty as a key factor behind the decision. He pointed to instability linked to conflict in the Middle East and its impact on global energy markets, including rising oil and natural gas prices.
The bank also warned that disruptions in key shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, could affect supply chains for food
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