After being asked by India to withdraw its diplomats, Canada strives to retain all of them
(AFP, Montreal, 3rd) Canada today sought to maintain the integrity of its diplomatic mission in India. Earlier, New Delhi reportedly asked Ottawa to withdraw 41 diplomats due to disputes between the two countries over Canada’s accusations of murdering Sikh separatists.
Two weeks ago, Canada pointed out that the Indian government may be involved in the assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, causing a sharp deterioration in relations between New Delhi and Ottawa.
Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly told reporters, “Because there are real tensions between the two governments, in moments of tension, it is even more important for diplomats to be on the scene. … That is why we believe that in India Maintaining a strong diplomatic presence is vital.”
Prior to this, the Financial Times reported that India had informed Canadian authorities that it must withdraw 41 diplomats by October 10.
Zhao Meilan would not confirm the report, but said that the dialogue with the New Delhi authorities was conducted “privately.” “We are in good ongoing dialogue with the Indian government,” she said.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau today described the current situation as “extremely difficult.” “We have no intention of escalating (the situation). As I said before, we will continue the important work of maintaining a constructive relationship with India,” he said.
India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to comment on the report.
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2023-10-04 13:05:03
