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The strained relationship between Canada and India continues to simmer, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi engaging in a brief exchange on the sidelines of the Asean Summit in Laos. While the encounter marked the second time the two leaders have met since Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, it appears no substantial progress has been made in repairing the fractured bilateral ties.
Trudeau, acknowledging the issues plaguing the relationship, stated that there is "work that we need to do." He refrained from elaborating on the specifics of the conversation but emphasized the importance of resolving the "real issues" facing both countries, particularly highlighting the need to ensure the safety of Canadians and uphold the rule of law. Trudeau also acknowledged the need to foster trade and people-to-people connections but emphasized the need to address the existing problems.
The Indian government, however, remains resolute in its expectations for Canada to take decisive action against what it perceives as "anti-India Khalistani activities" occurring within its borders. Sources close to the Indian delegation maintained that there was no meaningful discussion during the meeting, reiterating India's demand for concrete steps to be taken against individuals advocating violence and extremism against India from Canadian soil. Concerns were also raised regarding the alleged nexus between these elements and organized crime, drug syndicates, and human trafficking.
India's stance underlines its commitment to the importance of its relationship with Canada, but it maintains that true reconciliation cannot be achieved unless Canada takes stringent and verifiable measures against individuals engaged in anti-India activities and those conspiring to spread hate, misinformation, and violence within both countries. The case of Nijjar, who was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in Surrey, Canada, serves as a focal point of contention, with four Indian nationals currently facing charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy in connection with the incident.
The Indian government has also expressed concerns about Khalistani elements posing threats to Indian missions and diplomats. Adding to the sense of unease, Canada's Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly recently described the country's relationship with India as "tense" and "very difficult." She also acknowledged the ongoing threat of further violence targeting Indo-Canadians, raising alarm bells about the potential for more killings similar to that of Nijjar.
Trudeau, in his statements to the media, stood by his previous accusations regarding Nijjar's killing, asserting that he made them public out of a commitment to safeguarding Canadians. However, he provided no further details about the ongoing investigations or potential actions to be taken. The future of the relationship between India and Canada remains uncertain, with both sides emphasizing their commitment to resolving the existing issues while differing significantly in their approaches to achieving this goal.
Source: ‘Told PM there is work that we need to do’: Justin Trudeau on brief exchange with PM Modi