In the midst of an ongoing diplomatic row between Canada and India, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reiterated his country’s serious commitment to building closer relations with India. Despite the tensions between the two countries, Trudeau emphasized the importance of constructive engagement with India, highlighting India’s growing economic power and geopolitical significance.
The diplomatic tensions between Canada and India began when Trudeau announced on 19 September that Canada was investigating credible allegations of India’s involvement in the murder of a Sikh separatist leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Indian government dismissed these claims as “absurd.” Nijjar was murdered outside a temple in Canada in June, and both countries have since expelled a diplomat each from the other nation.
The strains in the relationship were further evident during the G20 summit in Delhi on 9 September, where Trudeau skipped an official dinner and had a brief and seemingly frosty meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In response to the diplomatic dispute, India suspended visa services for Canadians, citing security concerns at its diplomatic missions in the country.
Despite the tensions, Trudeau emphasized the need to continue the murder investigation and stated that India should collaborate with Canada to uncover the full facts of the case. India, on the other hand, denies any involvement in the murder and claims that Nijjar was designated a terrorist by Delhi in 2020. The Indian government has also been firm in its stance against demands for Khalistan, a separate Sikh homeland, which has gained support among some segments of the Sikh diaspora in countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK.
The diplomatic spat between India and Canada has not only strained bilateral relations but also tested the stance of Western countries. While the US, UK, and Australia have urged India to cooperate in the investigation, they have refrained from criticizing India, seeing it as a strategic ally in countering China’s influence in Asia. Trudeau disclosed that he received assurance from the US that the allegations would be raised during the meeting between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar in Washington. However, no mention of Canada was made during their subsequent press conference.
In conclusion, Trudeau’s reaffirmation of Canada’s commitment to strengthening ties with India demonstrates his determination to overcome the current diplomatic tensions. The ongoing murder investigation will likely continue to strain relations between the two countries, but it is crucial for both India and Canada to engage in constructive dialogue to uncover the truth in order to preserve the relationship and address any potential security concerns. The diplomatic dispute has also highlighted the complex dynamics between India and Western countries, who support India as a crucial regional partner in the face of China’s growing influence.
