The recent US indictment of an Indian national in a plot to assassinate a Sikh separatist on American soil has prompted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to highlight a "tonal shift" in Ottawa's relationship with New Delhi.
Trudeau mentioned in an interview with CBC news that the US indictment seemed to have led to a shift in India's approach, indicating a more measured stance from the Narendra Modi government. He emphasized a possible openness to collaboration, suggesting a departure from a more confrontational approach.
The Canadian PM noted a change in understanding, indicating that confrontational tactics might not resolve issues, signaling a potential willingness from India to engage in a more cooperative manner.
Trudeau mentioned Canada's reluctance to engage in a conflict with India over the incident, preferring instead to focus on trade agreements and the Indo-Pacific strategy. However, he underlined Canada's commitment to upholding rights, safety, and the rule of law.
India's response to Trudeau's previous claims regarding the allegations of India's involvement in the killing of Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada was swift, rejecting the claims as absurd and motivated.
In response to the US allegations and Trudeau's recent remarks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed India's commitment to the rule of law and willingness to examine the issue while emphasizing that isolated incidents should not derail the longstanding ties between India and the US.
The Canadian Prime Minister, in a previous interview with Canadian Press, explained that his statement linking Indian agents to the Nijjar killing was meant to serve as a deterrent, aiming to dissuade similar actions in Canada and reassure concerned citizens.
India's Ministry of External Affairs, in reaction to Trudeau's recent comments, highlighted concerns about Canada providing space to anti-India extremists and violence, indicating a contentious aspect of the issue.
The situation reflects a delicate balance between international relations, cooperation, and addressing concerns regarding security and rule of law, as both nations navigate the aftermath of this indictment.
(With Agency Inputs)
