India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed hope on Friday to rebuild relations with Canada based on “mutual trust and sensitivity.” The statement follows a period of strained ties after the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar and India’s concerns over extremist elements operating on Canadian soil.
Downturn in Bilateral Ties
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal attributed the deterioration in India-Canada relations to the “licence that was given to extremist and secessionist elements” in Canada. He made this statement during a media briefing in response to a question about the current state of bilateral ties following a recent visit to India by the Canadian intelligence chief.
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Fallout from Nijjar’s Killing
Relations between India and Canada reached a low point after former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of being involved in Nijjar’s murder in Surrey, British Columbia, in September 2023. India rejected the allegation as “absurd” and pointed out that Canada has failed to provide evidence to substantiate the claim.
Path Forward for India-Canada Relations
Despite the strained ties, India hopes to restore relations by focusing on mutual trust and addressing concerns about extremism. The MEA remains committed to maintaining dialogue and fostering better understanding between the two nations.
