Canada's spy agency has raised concerns about possible interference by India and China in the country's upcoming general election on April 28.
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) issued the warning during a press conference, suggesting that both nations could attempt to influence the electoral process. The agency also indicated that Russia and Pakistan have the potential to interfere, although their level of involvement is less certain.
Vanessa Lloyd, the deputy director of operations at CSIS, expressed concerns that foreign powers are increasingly using artificial intelligence to manipulate democratic processes.
She stated that the People’s Republic of China is "highly likely" to utilise AI-enabled tools to interfere in the ongoing election. These technologies, according to CSIS, can be used to spread disinformation, manipulate public opinion and undermine trust in democratic institutions.
The allegations come at a time when Canada's relations with both China and India are strained. China has denied previous accusations of interference, while India has also dismissed similar claims.
The tension between Canada and China has intensified recently, following the execution of four Canadian citizens on drug smuggling charges. Ottawa condemned the use of the death penalty, describing it as an excessive measure.
Additionally, China imposed tariffs worth over $2.6 billion on Canadian agricultural and food products earlier this month.
Relations between Canada and India have also been tense. Last year, Canada expelled six Indian diplomats, including the head of mission, following allegations that they were involved in a conspiracy against Sikh separatists in Canada.
CSIS has accused India of having the intent and capacity to interfere in Canadian communities and its democratic processes.
Lloyd also highlighted the potential influence of Russia and Pakistan, although their direct interference in the current election is considered less likely.
According to CSIS, while it is difficult to establish a direct link between foreign interference and election results, such activities could erode public confidence in Canada's democratic institutions.
A report published in January this year revealed that Canada had previously been slow to respond to interference attempts by China and India in the 2019 and 2021 general elections. However, the report noted that the election outcomes were not affected by these alleged attempts.
Canadian authorities have not disclosed the specific methods through which these nations may attempt to interfere in the election. The Chinese and Indian diplomatic missions in Ottawa have yet to respond to the latest accusations.
Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has previously called for greater vigilance against foreign interference, stressing the need to protect the integrity of the nation's electoral process.
The latest concerns from CSIS are likely to add to the ongoing debate about foreign influence and the role of technology in democratic processes.
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