Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed deep concerns on Friday regarding the ongoing diplomatic row between Canada and India. His remarks come in the wake of Canada’s recent decision to withdraw 41 diplomats from New Delhi following a dispute over their diplomatic status.
India’s decision to unilaterally revoke the status of Canadian diplomats was prompted by a recent statement by Trudeau, suggesting the possible involvement of Indian agents in the June murder of a Sikh terrorist in Canada. The move has intensified tensions between the two countries.
Trudeau, speaking at a televised press conference in Brampton, Ontario, lamented the impact of the diplomatic dispute, saying, “The Indian government is making it unbelievably difficult for life as usual to continue for millions of people in India and in Canada. And they’re doing it by contravening a very basic principle of diplomacy.”
He went on to express his concern for millions of Canadians of Indian origin, for whom life has become increasingly challenging due to the strained relations between the two nations. Additionally, Trudeau noted that the expulsion of Canadian diplomats would hinder travel and trade and create hardships for Indian students pursuing education in Canada.
Canada is home to around two million people with Indian heritage, constituting approximately 5% of the overall population. Moreover, India represents Canada’s largest source of global students, accounting for nearly 40% of study permit holders.
In response to Canada’s concerns, the Indian foreign ministry rejected allegations of violating the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The ministry released a statement explaining, “The state of our bilateral relations, the much higher number of Canadian diplomats in India, and their continued interference in our internal affairs warrant a parity in mutual diplomatic presence in New Delhi and Ottawa.”
Following the withdrawal of 41 diplomats, Canada now maintains 21 diplomats in India. The diplomatic standoff continues to strain relations between the two countries, leaving many hoping for a resolution that can restore normalcy and cooperation.
Sources By Agencies