AGP Executive Report

Foreign Influence Rules: Ottawa’s new foreign agent registry will name agents and describe activities, but won’t reveal the amounts paid publicly, citing “sensitive” details. Eurovision Debut: Canada is set to join Eurovision 2027 in Bulgaria after CBC/Radio-Canada becomes a full EBU member, with selection details coming later this year. Philippines Partnership: Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. elevated Canada–Philippines ties to a strategic partnership, with deals aimed at trade, energy (including nuclear), defence, cyber and tourism. B.C. Prosperity Deal: Carney and B.C. Premier David Eby signed a cooperative prosperity agreement to speed major energy and trade corridors, including LNG acceleration and federal support for the Fraser River tunnel and North Coast Transmission line. NATO Watch: NATO plans to replace its AWACS fleet with Sweden’s Saab GlobalEye aircraft, a move that could add friction with the U.S. AI Governance: The UN released a report warning AI is outpacing rules, pushing governments to act on safety and accountability. Arctic Climate Lens: A Canadian Arctic photo series won a New Scientist Editors Award, documenting how warming is shifting hunting and contaminating food through permafrost thaw.

Canada–Philippines Diplomacy: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. landed in Vancouver for a July 1–4 official visit, with meetings planned with PM Mark Carney and business leaders to deepen trade and security ties. Canada–Nigeria Partnership: Canada used Canada Day in Abuja to outline an expanded cooperation agenda with Nigeria across agriculture, renewable energy, mining, healthcare, innovation and skills. UN Foreign Policy: Canada’s UN ambassador says Carney’s “middle powers” approach is already showing up at the UN through issue-based coalitions and “variable geometry.” Trade Shock for North America: The U.S. says it won’t renew USMCA in its current form, starting a 10-year wind-down with annual reviews while Canada and Mexico negotiate changes. Eurovision, Canada Edition: Canada is officially joining Eurovision in 2027 after CBC/Radio-Canada became a full EBU member. Tech & Climate: Reports warn extreme weather threatens AI data centers worldwide, while economists and central bankers debate AI’s financial stability risks. Business/Innovation: Pasqal (via Aeponyx) is setting up a quantum sensing PIC packaging center in Bromont, and Northern Graphite is moving its processing plant to Namibia’s Okanjande as it prepares for a restart. Health Breakthrough: Vancouver’s Lee Marten became the first Canadian ALS patient to receive Elon Musk’s Neuralink implant in a Toronto clinical trial.

USMCA Shock: The Trump administration says it won’t renew the US-Mexico-Canada trade pact “in its current form,” kicking off a decade of annual reviews while negotiations continue—raising fresh uncertainty for Canadian exporters and automakers. Canada Day, Weather and Unity: Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Edmonton Canada Day visit was derailed by severe Ottawa thunderstorms, but his message still pushed unity as heat warnings hit parts of Central Canada. Eurovision Breakthrough: Canada officially joins Eurovision for 2027, with CBC/Radio-Canada set to debut and Canadians already showing major fan momentum. NATO and Defence Signals: NATO chief Mark Rutte says Ankara must deliver NATO goals, while Germany’s Merz argues Europe must assume more responsibility inside the alliance. Canada in Global Security: Moldova is set to receive more than 100 Roshel armored vehicles built in Canada, funded through an EU grant. Innovation at Home: Canadian firms unveiled a hyperspectral in-ovo egg sexing system that can determine chick sex as early as day four, aiming for commercial launch in late 2026 or early 2027. Sports Spotlight: Canada’s World Cup run continues to spark national pride, including a free Ottawa watch party for the Round of 16 vs. Morocco.

Canada Day & unity: Canadians marked July 1 with celebrations across the country as separatist tensions simmer, with Identity Minister Marc Miller and PM Mark Carney urging unity amid an Alberta referendum looming this fall. Eurovision breakthrough: CBC/Radio-Canada and the EBU confirmed Canada will debut at Eurovision in 2027 in Bulgaria, with details on how the entry is chosen to come later in 2026. Global AI governance: A UN AI panel co-chaired by Canadian Yoshua Bengio released a preliminary report outlining major opportunities and risks, warning that AI capabilities are outpacing governments’ ability to respond. Trade & uncertainty: As the USMCA review proceeds, contractors say Trump’s latest signals won’t immediately change operations, but prolonged uncertainty could chill investment and planning. NATO & defence industry: NATO chief Mark Rutte called next week’s Ankara summit a “delivery and implementation” moment, pushing allies to ramp up defence production and meet spending pledges. Canada in the world: Armenia and Kazakhstan sent Canada Day greetings to PM Carney and Governor General Louise Arbour, underscoring continued diplomatic ties. Security & tech: Canadian-backed IAG unveiled next-gen armored vehicles aimed at better mine and blast protection, while a NATO-linked project in the Czech Republic is testing grass to help restore Ukraine’s war-damaged soil.

Canada–NATO & Saudi trip: Prime Minister Mark Carney will head to the NATO summit in Türkiye next week, then make a first Saudi visit by a Canadian PM in 26 years, with talks on defence, energy, critical minerals and AI. Energy efficiency push: Governments meeting in Montreal at the IEA conference pledged to speed up energy efficiency to cut costs and protect against global energy shocks. Wildfire recovery: Ottawa is adding $520 million to Jasper’s wildfire rebuilding, on top of earlier funding, for infrastructure, interim housing and fire prevention. Trade tensions with China: China is imposing a 73.5% anti-dumping security deposit/tariff on Canadian pea starch imports starting Wednesday. TFSA basics: New coverage highlights TFSA rules for global investing, including withholding tax forms for U.S. dividends. Sports & culture: Canada beat South Africa 1-0 in the World Cup round of 32; and Dynamic Earth’s Sudbury expansion opens July 1. Local weather impacts: Alberta crews are planning to evacuate remaining campers in Kananaskis after flooding and landslides closed parts of parks. Human rights museum row: The Canadian Museum for Human Rights faces renewed controversy over its Nakba exhibit wording, with federal political pressure sparking backlash.

Space & Tech: Two NASA astronauts, Chris Williams and Jessica Meir, are set to do a spacewalk from the ISS to repair the Canadarm2 robotic arm after a May malfunction, replacing a wrist joint using a spare already on board. Federal & Industry: Canada’s Industry Minister Mélanie Joly will announce space-technology funding in Quebec on June 30, while Parliamentary Secretary Leslie Church will spotlight the National Food Security Strategy in Toronto. Trade & Diplomacy: Mark Carney meets Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in Canada July 1–4, with talks expected to focus on defense, economic resilience, energy and critical minerals. Energy & Housing: The federal Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program expands to more provinces and adds renter eligibility, aiming to cut bills and emissions. Economy & Policy: A Reuters report says the U.S. is expected to formally start the USMCA wind-down process, setting up a decade-long review as negotiations continue. Business Moves: Air Canada Landline expands Ontario service, adding more trips and new regional connections. Sports: Canada reaches the World Cup Round of 16 after Stephen Eustáquio’s stoppage-time winner over South Africa.

Inuit–Crown Talks: Prime Minister Mark Carney meets Inuit leaders and six federal ministers in Kuujjuaq, with observers flagging fresh tension after ITK’s pushback on “outdated, colonial” Arctic policy. Human Rights Museum Row: Heritage Minister Marc Miller says Winnipeg’s Canadian Museum for Human Rights should “rectify” its Palestinian displacement exhibit, including how Hamas is described. Alberta Secession Fight: Alberta’s Court of Appeal lets the Chief Electoral Officer verify separation petition signatures, but blocks the referendum process for now. Criminal Justice: Canada’s Protecting Victims Act (Bill C-16) is now law, making femicide first-degree murder and creating a coercive control offence plus tougher rules on deepfake threats. Health & Drugs: Health Canada authorized the first generic semaglutide injection for weight loss (Svemia). Arctic Defence: CAF launched Operation NANOOK-TAKUNIQ to boost land surveillance across Canada’s Arctic. World Cup Canada Buzz: Canada’s historic World Cup run is inspiring young players, while a dangerous U.S. heat dome threatens some host cities’ matches. Trade Watch: Canada’s former trade chief says a tariff deal with Washington before U.S. midterms is unlikely as CUSMA review looms.

Energy Bills Relief: Canada is expanding the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program to Quebec, B.C., Nova Scotia and P.E.I., offering no-cost home retrofits that can cut annual energy costs by $300 to $1,700 and reduce emissions by about 1.5 tonnes, with $500M+ in funding aimed at 35,000 low- and median-income households. World Cup Milestone: Canada beat South Africa 1-0 in the first men’s World Cup knockout match of its history, with Stephen Eustáquio scoring a late stoppage-time volley; the win sends the team to the round of 16 in Houston. UN Drug Warning: A new UN report says 1 in 16 people worldwide used drugs in 2024, with cannabis the most used and cocaine production hitting record levels. Canada-Philippines Ties: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will visit Canada July 1–4, meeting PM Mark Carney to discuss defense, energy and critical minerals cooperation and a push toward a Canada–ASEAN free trade deal. Critical Minerals Strategy: Canada and Japan are exploring joint stockpiling of critical minerals like graphite and gallium to reduce reliance on China supply chains. Tech & Travel: Travelport says Air Canada Flight Pass booking is now available through its TripServices and Smartpoint tools for eligible NDC offers. Public Service Return-to-Office: The federal July 6 return-to-office deadline for public servants still stands, though some departments may stagger implementation.

World Cup Shockwave: Stephen Eustáquio’s stoppage-time volley sent Canada past South Africa 1-0 in the Round of 32, handing the co-hosts their first-ever World Cup knockout win and a Round of 16 date in Houston vs. the Netherlands or Morocco. Indigenous Pride in the Stands: In Vancouver, Squamish Nation women sold handmade beadwork at the fan festival as Canada made history, turning the match into a cultural celebration. Immigration Pressure on Campuses: Laurentian University says international-student applicant declines are starting to plateau after federal permit curbs, though the drop remains significant versus earlier years. Regional Security Jolt: Iran launched drone and missile attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait after U.S. strikes, with Tehran warning it could halt talks. Disaster Response: Four days after Venezuela’s earthquakes, rescue teams kept searching for survivors as the death toll climbed and criticism of the government response grew. Public Safety: Near Vancouver, four people were rescued from the water in the Strait of Georgia; search continues for others.

World Cup Knockout: Canada and South Africa meet in the Round of 32 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with both sides making history and Canada betting on Alphonso Davies’ return after a hamstring layoff. Diplomacy & Security: Turkey and Canada say they’re expanding cooperation ahead of the NATO summit in Ankara, including trade, energy, critical minerals, defense and security. Energy Efficiency Push: Canada’s energy and environment ministers will announce support for a clean, affordable future in Montreal alongside the IEA’s energy-efficiency conference. Aviation Watch: Ottawa has suspended the Griffon helicopter modernization over “technical complexity,” putting Bell Textron’s contract in limbo. Immigration Update: Some young workers can access Canadian work permits multiple times through International Experience Canada, depending on country rules. Business Support: Canada pledges $5.6M to strengthen Black-owned businesses in Alberta via training, mentorship and market access. International Spotlight: A Chinese dissident who fled by dinghy has arrived in Canada after escaping to South Korea.

World Cup Focus: Canada’s Round of 32 showdown with South Africa in Los Angeles is set for Sunday, with captain Alphonso Davies’ status still a question as coach Jesse Marsch keeps his plans close to the vest. Taxpayer Watch: The CRA ombudsman has opened an investigation into delays on complex T1 adjustments, saying the slow processing may breach rights under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. Prairie Weather: Heavy rain and flooding risk are hitting parts of Alberta, while Saskatchewan faces tornado and severe thunderstorm watches. Public Safety/Immigration Enforcement: Canada has deported 81 people tied to alleged extortion-linked crime, with more removal proceedings underway. Humanitarian Crisis: International aid continues to pour into Venezuela after twin earthquakes, as Canada-linked organizations support relief and the death toll climbs past 1,400. Canada-Global Relations: Canada and CARICOM foreign ministers met in Panama to renew a results-focused action plan on security, climate resilience, and economic growth. Trade & Industry: China’s Geely says Lotus EVs will arrive in Canada next month under the Carney-Xi deal allowing up to 49,000 Chinese EVs annually at reduced tariffs. Military Update: The Canadian Army is standing down the 5th Division, shifting from region-based divisions to mission-based units.

Nuclear Ambitions: Financial Post breaks down Canada’s push to expand nuclear power, including what it takes to scale reactors and avoid past setbacks. Cross-Border Trade & Infrastructure: Prime Minister Mark Carney says the Gordie Howe bridge opening may take longer than planned, even as a ribbon-cutting is set for Friday. Immigration Pressure at the Border: A Montreal advocate warns Canada could see a new wave of Haitians after a U.S. court decision that weakens protections for migrants. Labour Relations: Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu is trying to cool tensions between unions and employers as Ottawa reviews federal labour rules. Defence Procurement: CBC reports Canada has put an $800M Griffon helicopter upgrade on hold due to technical complexity. Diplomacy & Trade: Turkey and Canada aim to lift ties ahead of NATO’s Ankara summit, while Philippines President Marcos visits Canada July 1–4 to push free-trade talks. Sports & Global Spotlight: Canada is now eligible for Eurovision after CBC/Radio-Canada became a full EBU member, and FIFA-related visa scrutiny is hitting World Cup travel.

Philippines-Canada Diplomacy: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. will visit Canada July 1–4 at Prime Minister Mark Carney’s invitation, with talks expected to cover defense and security, trade and investment, energy and critical minerals, and people-to-people ties. Eurovision Door Opens: CBC/Radio-Canada becoming a full member of the EBU means Canada is now eligible for Eurovision—Canada can compete, though it’s still unclear if it will actually take part. Safe Social Media Act: Marc Miller and Sport Secretary Adam van Koeverden will hold a roundtable on Bill C-34, the Safe Social Media Act, focused on making social media services and AI chatbots safer for children. Bail & Sentencing Reform: Canada’s bail and sentencing overhaul (Bill C-14) received royal assent, tightening rules for repeat and violent offenders, with key changes set to come into force July 15. Travel Made Easier: CBSA is simplifying international-to-international transit at Canadian airports so connecting passengers can skip in-person border check-ins. Air Canada Expansion: Air Canada will deploy its new Airbus A321XLR on U.S. routes from Montreal and Toronto, including Los Angeles and Miami service starting later this year. B.C. Park Challenge: A B.C. lawyer says closing Joffre Lakes Park for Lil’wat and N’Quatqua traditional activities could violate the Charter and provincial law. NATO/Arctic Focus: Carney says he discussed Arctic and defense priorities with Trump ahead of the Ankara NATO summit. Ontario Immigration Shift: Ontario rejected Ottawa’s plan to let rural employers hire more temporary foreign workers, citing youth unemployment and a push for domestic hiring.

Venezuela Quake Response: Rescue teams are racing to find survivors after two powerful earthquakes killed about 235 people and left at least 4,300 injured, with thousands still missing and hospitals overwhelmed. Bank of Canada Watch: A Canadian think tank says the Bank of Canada should publish an interest-rate forecast to make inflation messaging clearer for everyday Canadians. National Honours: Governor General Louise Arbour announced 61 new appointments to the Order of Canada, including 4 Companions, 19 Officers and 38 Members. Safe Social Media Act: Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree is set to highlight the new Safe Social Media Act at a media roundtable focused on making social media and AI chatbots safer for children. World Cup Focus: Canada’s World Cup run continues as it prepares for the Round of 32 against South Africa on Sunday in Los Angeles. Canada-Turkey Diplomacy: Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand met Turkey’s Hakan Fidan in Ottawa ahead of NATO talks, aiming to deepen ties on trade, energy and defence. Business Travel: Amex GBT reports four Canadian city pairs among the fastest-growing business travel routes, including Charlotte–Toronto and London–Montreal.

Humanitarian Response: Canada announced an initial C$5 million for emergency relief after deadly earthquakes hit Venezuela, adding to earlier funding and targeting food, clean water, sanitation, health care, protection and logistics. Public Safety Cooperation: Ottawa signed a public safety MOU with Qatar, aiming to strengthen police-to-police collaboration on transnational crime and evolving security threats. International Diplomacy: Prime Minister Mark Carney said Canada is “at a disadvantage” in countries like Iran and Venezuela because it lacks diplomatic presence, while also stressing Canada isn’t seeking to “endorse” governments by opening embassies. NATO & Defence: NATO chief Mark Rutte tried to calm tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump, using charts to show allies’ defence spending increases ahead of the Ankara summit. Sports & Community: Qatar’s sports minister visited injured Canada player Ismael Koné in Vancouver, while Canada’s World Cup run ended with a 2-1 loss to Switzerland and a knockout match vs South Africa. Tech & Health: A federal $100M investment will expand Unity Health and U of T’s VITAL hospital data-sharing platform nationwide. Pop Culture: Canada became eligible for Eurovision after CBC/Radio-Canada secured full EBU membership.

World Cup Shock: Switzerland beat Canada 2-1 with goals from Rubén Vargas and Johan Manzambi, winning Group B and sending Canada into the knockout round for the first time in team history—Canada now travels to face South Africa in the round of 32. Canada–Japan Security: Defence Minister David McGuinty urged a “disciplined” approach with China while strengthening ties with Japan, including AI and critical minerals cooperation. Arctic Defence Deal: Canada is set to buy an over-the-horizon radar system from Australia in a major $2.5B agreement, boosting Arctic surveillance. Air Canada Disruption: An Air Canada flight was diverted to Boston after the captain became incapacitated mid-flight; the first officer safely landed with 61 passengers onboard. Tech & Policy: Canada’s Safe Social Media Act is in the spotlight as Ottawa pushes new protections for children online. Public Safety Coast Guard: Media advisory announced new security provisions for the Canadian Coast Guard. Business & Investment: Onex and co-investors agreed to acquire AirSprint, Canada’s fractional jet operator, backing fleet and tech upgrades. Health & Prevention: Alan announced a €480M Series G financing round to scale “prevention insurance,” backed by Prosus.