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Carney Tempers Expectations on U.S.-Canada Trade Talks

                                             Carney says U.S. tariff reprieve 'unlikely' to happen before CUSMA review talks. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has downplayed the likelihood of a near-term trade deal between Canada and the United States, signaling that any progress will likely be folded into the upcoming review of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) scheduled for 2026. Speaking at a press conference in Ottawa, Carney explained that efforts to secure sector-specific agreements—particularly in industries such as steel, aluminum, autos, and lumber—have stalled since U.S. President Donald Trump abruptly ended negotiations in October. The talks were derailed after Ontario aired a controversial anti-tariff advertisement featuring former President Ronald Reagan, which drew sharp criticism from Washington. Carney emphasized that while Canada...

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Ireland, Spain, and Norway Recognize Palestinian State: A Historic Move

                             

In a significant and historic development, Ireland, Spain, and Norway have officially recognized the state of Palestine. The move has drawn both praise and criticism from various quarters.

Recognition and Reactions

  • Ireland: Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris described the recognition as “an historic and important day for Ireland and for Palestine.” The decision was coordinated with Spain and Norway, with the aim of advancing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict toward a peaceful resolution through a two-state solution.

  • Spain: Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez announced the recognition in the Spanish Parliament. European Union countries Spain and Ireland, along with Norway, have taken this step amid international outrage over the civilian death toll and humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip following Israel’s offensive.

  • Norway: Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store and Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide jointly made the announcement in Oslo. Israel’s Foreign Minister Israel Katz swiftly ordered the return of Israel’s ambassadors from both Norway and Ireland in response to the recognition.

Israel’s Reaction

Israel has expressed strong disapproval, considering this move a “gift to Hamas.” The recognition has further strained relations between Israel and the three European nations.

Formal Recognition Date

The formal recognition of the Palestinian state is set for May 28, 2024. This decision marks a significant milestone in the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and has implications for regional dynamics.


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