Canadian diplomats have been instructed to avoid meetings with U.S. Midterm election candidates, according to a memo sent by Global Affairs Canada. The directive, issued this week, prohibits diplomats from attending events or engaging with candidates in the U.S. Elections. The order comes amid heightened diplomatic tensions between Ottawa and Washington.
The memo, sent by Glen Linder, assistant deputy minister for the Americas at Global Affairs Canada, was distributed to foreign service members in the United States. It outlines restrictions on diplomatic interactions during the midterm elections, which take place in November. The move is seen as a response to recent allegations of election interference by the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa.
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa recently released a "fact sheet" listing Canadian officials, including Joly, Ford, and Housefather, as being involved in alleged election interference. A professor from the University of Toronto, Randy Besco, criticized the allegations, stating they do not align with the common understanding of election interference.
This directive follows a pattern of diplomatic friction, with Ottawa previously expressing concerns over U.S. Influence in Canadian political affairs. The current restrictions are part of broader efforts to manage bilateral relations during a politically sensitive period.
The situation reflects ongoing tensions between the two nations, with each side accusing the other of undermining democratic processes. As the midterm elections approach, the impact of these diplomatic measures on bilateral relations remains to be seen.
