External Affairs Minister Jaishankar revealed that he raised concerns regarding the ongoing diplomatic row with Canada during meetings with US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Jaishankar acknowledged that the issue of Canadian allegations was discussed during his meeting with Blinken at the Foggy Bottom headquarters of the US State Department. He stated that both Sullivan and Blinken shared US views and assessments on the situation. Jaishankar expressed hope that the discussions improved the understanding between India and the US regarding the bilateral dispute with Canada.
Additionally, Jaishankar reiterated India’s openness to examining any specific or relevant information that Canada may have regarding the assassination of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. He affirmed that if the Canadian government possessed any relevant and specific information that they would like India to investigate, India was willing to consider it. However, Jaishankar noted that the Canadian Prime Minister made allegations that were not consistent with India’s policy. He mentioned that both privately and publicly, India responded to the Canadian PM, clarifying this inconsistency. Jaishankar emphasized that the conversation on this matter is ongoing but provided no further details.
Furthermore, Jaishankar drew attention to the concerning presence of organised crime in Canada, which is intermingled with secessionism, violence, and terrorism. He described it as a noxious combination of issues and individuals who have found a safe haven in the country. The minister expressed his worry about the safety of Indian diplomats in Canada, highlighting instances where they faced public intimidation. This concern led to the temporary suspension of visa operations in Canada, indicating the severity of the situation.
The ongoing row between India and Canada was triggered when the Canadian Prime Minister alleged that Indian agents were involved in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. However, New Delhi vehemently denied this accusation as absurd. The response from Canada’s allies, particularly those within the intelligence alliance known as Five Eyes, has been rather tepid. Observers have highlighted the disparity in interests, with India’s rising global stature and strategic importance overshadowing Canada’s relatively limited global power.
India’s increasing prominence has made it a significant focus of attention for the United States and its allies, as they recognize its potential as a key counterforce to the expansionist tendencies of China, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. In contrast, although Canada is regarded as a dependable ally in the Western world, it does not hold the same level of global influence and importance.
Overall, Jaishankar’s discussions with US officials indicate India’s commitment to resolving the diplomatic dispute with Canada and its readiness to examine any specific information provided. The concerns raised about organised crime and the safety of Indian diplomats highlight the gravity of the situation. The article also underscores the differing geopolitical circumstances faced by India and Canada, with India’s growing prominence and strategic significance shaping its international relations, while Canada’s role is comparatively limited.
