Mon Dec 16 16:50:25 UTC 2024: ## Top News Headlines: Canada’s Finance Minister Resigns Amidst Disagreements, Major Events Across the Globe

**Ottawa, Canada/New Delhi, India –** A flurry of significant events unfolded globally today. Canada’s Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland resigned from her post, citing disagreements with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau over Canada’s economic future, particularly concerning the threat of aggressive economic nationalism from the incoming US administration. In a letter shared on X (formerly Twitter), Freeland stated that she felt resigning was the only honest course of action.

**Tragedy in Georgia:** At least 11 Indian citizens are among 12 people who died from carbon monoxide poisoning in a Georgian ski resort. The incident occurred after a power outage forced the use of a petrol generator in a restaurant building. The Indian embassy in Tbilisi expressed condolences to the families of the victims.

**Syria’s Assad Speaks Out:** Former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, for the first time since leaving Syria following a rebel takeover, released a statement denying pre-planned escape and detailing his movements after the rebels seized Damascus. He claims he relocated to Latakia to oversee operations with Russian allies before being flown to Moscow.

**India:** The Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) cancelled its 70th preliminary examination held in Patna’s Bapu Examination Centre due to widespread disruptions and alleged irregularities in question paper distribution. Authorities are investigating allegations of paper leaks and identifying those responsible for the disturbances. Separately, the opening of a long-closed Shiva temple in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, following recent communal tensions, has led to the discovery of ancient statues, prompting archaeological investigations. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the Sambhal violence in the state assembly.

**Sri Lanka’s President Visits India:** Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe is on an official visit to India, holding a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral economic ties, including energy and digital connectivity.

**International Affairs:** Turkey condemned Israel’s expansion of settlements in the Golan Heights, calling it a violation of international agreements. France’s interior minister is visiting Mayotte, a French island in the Indian Ocean, following devastating damage caused by Cyclone Cheneso, which has claimed at least 11 lives.

**Other News:** Renowned tabla player Ustad Zakir Hussain passed away in San Francisco. Tributes poured in from across the globe for the legendary musician. The Indian cricket team struggled in its innings against Australia in the ongoing Brisbane Test match. Other news includes a family’s claim of negligence at a Jaipur cancer institute, an apology by a cricket commentator, and concerns about declining student numbers in Kota’s coaching centers. A debate in the Indian Parliament centered on the Constitution and accusations of misuse of power by past governments.

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