Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has reached out to the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in an effort to ease the tensions between India and Canada. The move comes amidst an ongoing dispute between the two countries over remarks made by Trudeau in support of the farmer protests in India. Trudeau’s phone call with the UAE President is seen as an attempt to find a diplomatic solution to the strained relations between India and Canada.

The India-Canada row began in December 2020 when Trudeau expressed his solidarity with the farmers protesting against three new farm laws passed by the Indian government. His comments were seen by the Indian government as interference in internal matters and an attempt to undermine India’s sovereignty. In response, India summoned the Canadian High Commissioner and conveyed its displeasure over Trudeau’s remarks.

Since then, tensions between the two countries have escalated, with India imposing tariffs on Canadian peas and lentils and suspending some agricultural imports. Canada, on the other hand, has criticized India’s handling of the farmer protests and voiced concerns over the treatment of human rights activists in the country.

In light of the strained relations, Trudeau’s phone call with the UAE President is significant. The UAE has close ties with both India and Canada and has been trying to mediate between the two countries. It is hoped that the conversation between Trudeau and the UAE President will help de-escalate the tensions and pave the way for a resolution of the India-Canada row.

Meanwhile, efforts are also being made at the diplomatic level to find a solution to the dispute. India and Canada have agreed to hold talks at the Foreign Secretary level to discuss the issues of concern and explore ways to strengthen bilateral relations. Both countries maintain that they value their relationship and are committed to resolving the differences through dialogue and diplomatic channels.

The India-Canada row is a reminder of the complexity of international relations and the need for careful diplomacy. It highlights the challenges faced by countries in navigating sensitive issues and balancing domestic and international interests. As India and Canada work towards resolving their differences, it is hoped that they will find a mutually beneficial and amicable solution that strengthens their bilateral ties.