In a nuanced diplomatic exchange, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has clarified that Canada’s recent comments regarding India are not meant to provoke but to seek a proper response from the Indian government. This statement comes in the wake of a growing controversy surrounding Canada’s allegations of Indian involvement in the murder of a Khalistani terrorist.
Trudeau emphasized, “The government of India needs to take this matter with the utmost seriousness. We are doing that, we are not looking to provoke or escalate.” India, earlier in the day, had dismissed Canada’s accusations as absurd.
The recent diplomatic friction led to India expelling a senior Canadian diplomat in a reciprocal move, giving the unnamed diplomat five days to leave the country. Trudeau had previously asserted that his government possessed “credible allegations” linking the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar with “agents of the Government of India,” a claim that the Indian government vehemently rejected as “absurd and motivated.”
This dispute not only strains diplomatic relations between the two countries but also threatens trade ties, with talks on a proposed trade deal suspended last week. Additionally, India has expressed dissatisfaction with Sikh separatist activities taking place within Canada.
Trudeau’s measured statement underscores the delicate nature of international relations, as both nations navigate the complexities of this diplomatic challenge.
