EAM Jaishankar, Canadian Foreign Minister Held 'Secret Meeting' In US To Discuss Diplomatic Stand-Off: Report

During a recent diplomatic stand-off between Canada and India over allegations of India's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a secret meeting took place between Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly and India's Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar in Washington, according to the Financial Times.

The meeting was held in an attempt to address the tense situation between the two countries.

As of now, neither the Canadian nor Indian foreign ministry has officially confirmed the occurrence of the meeting. Thus, details surrounding the meeting remain undisclosed.

In addition to the secret meeting, the Canadian government is reportedly working towards resolving the strained diplomatic situation with India.

Recent reports suggested that Canadian diplomats were given a deadline to leave India, potentially losing their diplomatic immunity if they failed to comply.

The efforts being made by the Canadian government indicate a desire to improve relations with New Delhi.

The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming days.

The issue at hand is being addressed privately by the Canadian foreign minister, as stated earlier this month.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has emphasised that Canada does not want to escalate the situation with India. He has assured that his country will continue to engage responsibly and constructively with New Delhi.

Trudeau's statement reflects Canada's commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with India and finding diplomatic solutions to any challenges that may arise. By approaching the situation with caution and respect, Canada aims to foster a peaceful and mutually beneficial partnership with India.

Canada's CTV News recently reported that around 30 diplomatic staff members from India have been relocated to either Kuala Lumpur or Singapore.

This move comes amidst worsening relations between India and Canada.

On 19 September, Trudeau alleged a "potential" involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia.

In response to these allegations, India strongly dismissed the charges, considering them "absurd" and "motivated."

In response to Canada's expulsion of an Indian official, New Delhi expelled a senior Canadian diplomat. India's External Affairs Ministry has now called for a reduction in Canada's diplomatic staff in India, citing the need to achieve parity due to Canada's "higher diplomatic presence".