"In Contact With S Jaishankar": First Acknowledgment Of Ministerial Level Talks Amid India-Canada Tensions

Canada's Foreign Minister, Mélanie Joly, has officially acknowledged her communication with India's External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, amidst the ongoing strain in their bilateral relationship. This marks the first confirmation of ministerial-level discussions since the tensions emerged.

Joly emphasised on Monday (30 October) that the connection between Canada and India is deeply rooted in strong ties, and they remain actively engaged with the Indian government. She attempted to downplay the diplomatic tensions.

According to Hindustan Times, During a Q&A session at an event in Toronto, Joly stated, "I've been in contact with Foreign Minister Jaishankar, and we will continue to do so."

Tensions started with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's statement in the House of Commons on 18 September, in which he mentioned "credible allegations" of a potential connection between Indian agents and the killing of Khalistani figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar on 18 June in Surrey, British Columbia.

During her speech at the Economic Club of Canada, she underlined, "It is important to remember this is one moment in a relationship that spans decades and is built upon a strong connection between our two peoples."

She acknowledged that the relationship is currently facing a challenging phase but reiterated, "We stand by the decision to inform Canadians of credible allegations around the killing of a Canadian citizen. This is, at its core, a question of protecting our national sovereignty and Canadians' safety. In addressing this serious matter, we remain engaged with the Indian Government."

Joly expressed her commitment to maintaining communication with her Indian counterpart, emphasising Canada's long-term approach towards its relationship with India.

She also discussed Canada's foreign policy principles, which include "vigorously defending our sovereignty" and "using pragmatic diplomacy." Joly stressed the importance of engagement even with those nations with whom Canada may have disagreements.

In the aftermath of Trudeau's statement, which was criticized by New Delhi as "absurd" and "motivated," both countries expelled a diplomat from each side. Furthermore, 41 Canadian diplomats were recalled from India earlier this month, as New Delhi indicated that they would lose diplomatic immunity if they remained stationed. This move was labeled by Canada as a "mass expulsion" of its diplomats, while India argued it sought "parity" in the number of diplomats.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the principal of the secessionist group Sikhs for Justice in British Columbia, was killed in the parking lot of the Guru Nanak Sikh Gurdwara, which he led in the town of Surrey. Canada has not provided evidence of New Delhi's involvement in the killing.