Are the allegations tru deau? Canada and India’s diplomatic row
Sep 20, 2023
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Anton LaGuardia, Diplomatic editor for The Economist, dives into the escalating Canada-India tensions sparked by the assassination of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Najjar. Noah Snyder, Tokyo bureau chief, highlights Japan's rigorous earthquake preparedness a century after the Great Kanto quake. Claire McHugh, culture writer, discusses the booming resurgence of country music, particularly among younger audiences, and how contemporary artists are blending traditional styles with modern themes. This lively conversation weaves pressing global issues with cultural evolution.
Canada and India's bilateral relations are strained due to allegations of India's involvement in the murder of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Najjar, potentially causing concern among foreign countries with large Sikh populations.
Japan commemorates the 100th anniversary of the Great Kanto earthquake, highlighting the need for ongoing preparation and concern about the potential impact on lives, economy, and global supply chains.
Deep dives
A Crisis in India-Canada Relations
Three months after the killing of Sikh separatist leader Hadeep Singh Najah, Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the murder, leading to a significant crisis in bilateral relations. The Indian government denied the allegations, and tensions between Canada and India, which already existed due to historical issues, have escalated. The involvement of foreign countries with large Sikh populations, such as the US, UK, and Australia, could be a cause for concern.
Preparing for the Next Big Earthquake in Japan
Japan, a country prone to earthquakes, commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Great Kanto earthquake, which killed over 100,000 people. With a 70% chance of a magnitude 7 or higher earthquake hitting the Tokyo area within the next 30 years, the country continues to prepare for the next big one. Although better technology and urban planning have improved Japan's resilience, the potential impact on lives, the economy, and global supply chains remains a concern.
The Modern Moment of Country Music
Country music, once associated with older and conservative Americans, is experiencing a surge in popularity among young listeners through streaming services and social media platforms. Artists like Morgan Wallen have made country music more appealing to urbanites, and the genre has surpassed hip-hop and R&B in popularity in America. The shift in tone, focusing on relatable themes and incorporating pop influences, has contributed to its modern success.
The murder of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Najjar has deepened a long-running spat between the two countries. Will Canada’s allies be willing to get involved? It’s been 100 years since Japan’s Great Kanto earthquake. Here’s how the country is preparing in case there is another (XX:XX). And young people’s newfound love for country music is fuelling a boom in the genre (XX:XX).
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