Tense Meeting between Modi and Trudeau: India Raises Concerns over Khalistani Violence in Canada

India and Canada had a tense meeting during the G-20 summit in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his concerns about Khalistani violence in Canada, while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau raised the issue of foreign interference from India. Both leaders acknowledged their differences in their respective statements.

During the meeting, Modi conveyed his strong concerns about extremist elements in Canada to Trudeau. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the promotion of secessionism, incitement of violence against Indian diplomats, damage to diplomatic premises, and threats to the Indian community and their places of worship.

The groups involved were believed to have connections with organized crime, drug syndicates, and human trafficking. Cooperation between the two countries was deemed essential in dealing with such threats.

Trudeau, on the other hand, raised the issue of foreign interference in Canadian elections. His government had accused intelligence agencies from India and other countries of being involved.

The Canadian Parliament has been discussing this matter, particularly after their National Security Advisor reported the involvement of state actors and proxies from China, India, Iran, and Russia in influencing national politics and elections. Trudeau also addressed India's concerns regarding Khalistani groups.

Overall, the meeting between Modi and Trudeau highlighted the tensions and differing concerns between India and Canada. Both leaders emphasized the need for cooperation in addressing these issues.

Mr. Trudeau also highlighted the importance of respecting the rule of law and addressing foreign interference.

“Canada will always defend freedom of expression, freedom of conscience, and freedom of peaceful protest and it is extremely important to us. At the same time we are always there to prevent violence and to push back against hatred,” Mr. Trudeau told reporters

The bilateral relationship between Canada and India has been strained, with issues such as concerns over Khalistani extremism in Canada, violence against the Indian diaspora, and Canadian criticism of the Indian government's handling of the Farm Bill protests. Trade ties and the Free Trade Agreement have been put on hold, and the leaders did not discuss their resumption during their recent meeting.

Ahead of the G-20 Summit, Mr. Trudeau caused some controversy by expressing disappointment that Ukraine president Volodymr Zelenskyy had been "excluded" from the summit by New Delhi. This further strained the relationship between Canada and India.

The scheduling of the bilateral meeting between the two Prime Ministers raised eyebrows, as it was only confirmed late on Saturday. Additionally, Mr. Trudeau skipped the official banquet, citing scheduling reasons.

When questioned about the strained ties and a video that appeared to show Mr. Trudeau pulling his hand away from PM Modi, he stated that he had a good relationship with PM Modi and they had always been able to discuss difficult issues.

India is a crucial economy and partner for Canada in various aspects, including combating climate change and promoting growth and prosperity for all citizens. Mr. Trudeau emphasized the ongoing commitment to this partnership and the continuous efforts to address the challenges ahead.