India-Canada Relations in a “Difficult Phase” : EAM JaiShankar

India-Canada Relations in a “Difficult Phase” : EAM JaiShankar

India-Canada Relations in a “Difficult Phase” : EAM JaiShankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar acknowledged that India-Canada relations are currently experiencing a “difficult phase.” He cited concerns regarding parity and continuous interference by Canadian personnel in India’s domestic affairs as reasons for the strained diplomatic relationship.

Parity and Vienna Convention

Jaishankar emphasized that the concept of parity is established by the Vienna Convention, an international agreement governing diplomatic relations. India invoked parity due to its concerns about interference by Canadian personnel in Indian affairs. While not disclosing specific details, Jaishankar indicated that the discomfort stemmed from certain actions and behaviors that led to India’s response.

Safety Concerns for Indian Diplomats

The External Affairs Minister revealed that India had to halt the issuance of visas in Canada because it was no longer safe for Indian diplomats to work there. Safety and security for diplomats are fundamental aspects of the Vienna Convention, and concerns about their well-being were a primary reason for suspending visa services.

Hope for Improvement

Jaishankar expressed hope that the situation would improve, leading to the resumption of visa services. He noted that confidence in the safety of Indian diplomats performing their duties is a critical factor in this context. He also underscored the challenges India faced in Canada regarding the safety and security of its diplomats.

Strained Relations and Past Allegations

Tensions between India and Canada have risen in recent years, particularly after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged that the Indian government was behind the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India rejected the allegations as “absurd” and “motivated,” emphasizing the lack of public evidence to support the claims.

The statement by Jaishankar sheds light on the complexities of India-Canada relations and highlights the significance of adhering to diplomatic norms and safety standards for diplomats.