Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering commitment to forging stronger bonds with India, despite the backdrop of “credible allegations” implicating the Indian government in the demise of Khalistani militant Hardeep Singh Nijjar, as reported by Canada-based National Post. Emphasizing India’s escalating global influence, Trudeau stressed the paramount importance of continued constructive engagement between Canada and its allies with India.
Addressing a press conference in Montreal, Trudeau underscored that India’s burgeoning economic prowess and its pivotal geopolitical role necessitate robust ties. He noted, “India is a growing economic power and important geopolitical player. And as we presented with our Indo-Pacific strategy, just last year, we’re very serious about building closer ties with India.”
However, Trudeau concurrently underscored the imperative for India to collaborate with Canada in order to unearth the full facts of the matter, underscoring Canada’s steadfast commitment to the rule of law.
Furthermore, Trudeau disclosed that he had received assurances from the United States that Secretary of State Antony Blinken would raise the publicly made allegations concerning India’s involvement in Nijjar’s assassination during his meeting with Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar in Washington, D.C.
“The Americans have been with us in speaking to the Indian government about how important it is that they be involved in following up on the credible allegations that agents of the Indian government killed a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil,” Trudeau affirmed.
He added, “This is something that all democratic countries, all countries that respect the rule of law need to take seriously. We are moving forward in a thoughtful, responsible way anchored in the rule of law with all of our partners, including in our approach to the Government of India.”
Notably, Trudeau had earlier apprised the Canadian House of Commons on September 18 that Canadian security agencies were actively pursuing “credible allegations of a potential link” between agents of the Government of India and the killing of Nijjar. This call for cooperation from the Indian government to uncover the truth prompted India to vehemently reject the allegations, denouncing them as ‘absurd’ and ‘motivated.’
The absence of public evidence supporting Trudeau’s claim further exacerbated the already strained relations between the two nations. India, in response, suspended its visa services in Canada, citing Trudeau’s allegations as the reason.
Amidst these tensions, India issued a travel advisory for its citizens and those traveling to Canada, urging them to exercise “utmost caution in view of growing anti-India activities and politically-condoned hate crimes and criminal violence” within the country.
By ANI
