To ease tensions with India, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has emphasized that Canada does not intend to worsen the situation. The Canadian government has stated that it is having “discussions to ensure a diplomatic presence in India. Trudeau’s remarks came after a report in the Financial Times suggested that India wants 41 out of the 62 diplomats to leave the country.
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly also addressed this issue and highlighted Canada’s commitment to maintaining a diplomatic presence in India. She stressed the importance of having diplomats on the ground during times of tension especially considering the relations between the two governments at present. Joly explained, “We are in contact with the government. We take the safety of our diplomats seriously. Believe that private diplomatic discussions are most effective.”
“In times of heightened tensions – which we are experiencing now more than ever – it is crucial for diplomats to be physically present on location. That’s why we emphasize how significant it is to maintain a presence, in India ” she added.
A week back Trudeau made claims about India’s connection to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani terrorist, on Canadian territory.