Canada’s planned trade mission to India, originally scheduled for October, has been deferred. Shanti Cosentino, the spokesperson for Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng, confirmed this decision. While no explicit reason was provided for the postponement, it comes shortly after Canada halted discussions regarding a trade pact with India.
This development follows recent talks held between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the G20 Summit in New Delhi on September 10. During their discussions, PM Modi expressed deep concerns about the activities of extremist elements in Canada who continue to engage in anti-India actions. These elements have been actively promoting secessionism, inciting violence against Indian diplomats, and posing threats to the Indian community residing in Canada.
PM Modi emphasized the necessity of fostering a relationship between India and Canada based on “mutual respect and trust” for the advancement of bilateral ties. In response, Trudeau assured that Canada stands for the protection of the freedom of peaceful protest but is also committed to preventing violence and countering hatred.
Trudeau stated, “Canada will always defend freedom of expression, freedom of conscience, and freedom of peaceful protest, and it is extremely important to us. At the same time, we are always there to prevent violence and to push back against hatred. I think on the issue of the community, it is important to remember that the actions of the few do not represent the entire community or Canada.”
Earlier this year, a controversial incident occurred when a video surfaced on social media depicting the assassination of Indira Gandhi during a parade organized by certain Khalistani elements in Brampton, Canada. Subsequently, in July, India summoned the Canadian envoy and issued a demarche in response to the escalating activities of pro-Khalistani groups within Canada.
