India-Canada relations passing through difficult phase: Jaishankar
India has expressed its concerns about the challenging state of its relationship with Canada, citing what it sees as 'persistent interference' by Canadian officials in India's internal affairs.
The Indian government's discontent stems from Canadian Premier Justin Trudeau's recent insinuation that Indian agents may have had a role in the June assassination of a Sikh separatist leader in British Columbia. India firmly denies these allegations.
At an event, India's Foreign Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, addressed the matter stating, 'The current state of our relationship is undeniably challenging. However, it's essential to emphasize that our issues primarily lie with a specific faction of Canadian politics and the policies that stem from it.'
In response to these tensions, Canada withdrew 41 of its diplomats from India last Thursday, following New Delhi's unilateral decision to revoke their official diplomatic status.
Premier Trudeau, on Friday, voiced his concerns, asserting that the Indian government's actions against Canadian diplomats were adversely affecting the lives of millions in both nations.
S. Jaishankar clarified that India invoked diplomatic parity under the Vienna Convention because of ongoing interference by Canadian personnel in Indian affairs. He also disclosed that India had suspended visa issuance in Canada several weeks ago due to concerns regarding the safety and security of its diplomats while on duty. India is open to resuming visa issuance once progress is made in ensuring the safety of its diplomats working in Canada.
Canada is home to around two million individuals of Indian heritage, constituting 5% of its population. Moreover, India represents the most significant source of overseas students for Canada, accounting for approximately 40% of study permit holders.
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