NATO has asked for Canadian troops to stay in Afghanistan past the end of their training mission in 2014, but Foreign Affairs Minister John Baird tells CBC he isn't "prepared to commit to any more than that."

The Department of Foreign Affairs is poised to sell off paintings in its collection by some of the most famous and sought after artists in Canadian history, including Riopelle, Borduas and Kurelek, to make some extra cash.

Canadian diplomats are bracing for federal cuts expected next week, including reductions in embassy staff, longer foreign postings, fewer limos and the closure of some trade consulates.