Global Affairs

Our increased dependence on the U.S., our smaller relative weight in a globalized world, and our general disinterest and lack of investment in international affairs all leave Canada unequipped to play the role of a middle power.

As the federal government scrambles to bring Canadians home from foreign countries that have closed their borders and airports, provinces and territories are wrestling with what limitations need to be placed on internal travel to slow the spread of COVID-19 within Canada.

China has now granted Canada access to both of its recently arrested citizens — a move one former Canadian consular official sees as an encouraging sign.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called the appointment of Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe as a goodwill ambassador for the WHO "unacceptable," joining a chorus of widespread condemnation.

Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland says there are no reports of Canadian casualties following a magnitude 7.1 earthquake that killed dozens in Mexico.

Spanish authorities say Canada is among 34 countries with citizens killed or injured in the terrorist attack in Barcelona.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says Canadians "are shocked by the news of the horrific attack in Manchester."