Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has stated that Canada does not intend to “escalate” the current diplomatic tension with India. This comes amid a dispute over the killing of a Khalistani separatist. Trudeau affirmed that his government will maintain “constructive relations” with India. The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of having Canadian diplomats present in India, responding to reports that India may request the removal of 41 out of 62 remaining diplomats. However, Trudeau did not confirm this report. He acknowledged the challenging nature of the current situation with India. Foreign Minister Melanie Joly supported the idea of a “strong diplomatic footprint” in India, emphasizing the significance of having diplomats on the ground during moments of tension.
The diplomatic strain between India and Canada heightened following Trudeau’s allegations of potential involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India strongly rejected these claims, leading to various diplomatic measures. Last month, India urged Canada to reduce its diplomatic staff, citing the need for parity and equivalence in diplomatic presence. The size of the Canadian diplomatic staff in India is reportedly larger than that of India in Canada. India also called for stringent actions against terrorists and anti-India elements operating from Canada and suspended visa services for Canadians.
In response to these developments, Trudeau reiterated Canada’s commitment to working constructively with India and expressed a reluctance to escalate the situation. However, the Foreign Minister, Melanie Joly, stressed the importance of maintaining a diplomatic presence in India, particularly during times of tension.
The larger issue revolves around Trudeau’s allegations and the subsequent diplomatic fallout. Hardeep Singh Nijjar, designated as a terrorist by India in 2020, was shot dead by masked gunmen in June in British Columbia. The diplomatic discussions between India and Canada are expected to continue, with both countries needing to address their differences and the broader issue of “permissiveness” flagged by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.
