Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly’s recent statement captures the essence of a diplomatic tug-of-war between Canada and India. “We are in contact with the government of India,” she asserted, “We take Canadian diplomats’ safety very seriously and we will continue to engage privately because we think diplomatic conversations are best when they remain private.”
This cautious response from Canada unfolds against the backdrop of escalating tensions, sparked by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations regarding India’s involvement in the death of a Sikh separatist who was declared a terrorist by the Indian government in 2020. The latest development in this strained diplomatic dance is India’s request for Canada to significantly downsize its diplomatic presence in the country by October 10th, 2023.
According to a Financial Times report, India had asked Canada to withdraw 41 of its 62 diplomats posted at missions in the country. This reduction in diplomatic personnel is significant and carries potential implications for bilateral relations. Additionally, in the face of reports that India could revoke the diplomatic immunity of some diplomats who remained in the country beyond a deadline of October 10, there was no official word from the Canadian side on whether it has been or is going to pull out its officials or the impact of such a withdrawal.
As this diplomatic showdown unfolds, it’s essential to examine the numerical disparity between the two nations’ diplomatic missions, which highlights the stark contrast in diplomatic engagement:
Canada’s Diplomatic Presence in India:
– Canada maintains four missions in India, including the High Commission in Delhi.
– Over 100 accredited Canadian diplomats are stationed in India, occupying various positions such as high commissioners, deputy high commissioners, ministers, councillors, first secretaries, second secretaries, and attachés.
– When considering non-accredited staff and family members, the Canadian presence in India far exceeds that of India in Canada.
India’s Diplomatic Presence in Canada:
– India operates three missions in Canada.
– India’s presence in Canada comprises approximately 35 accredited diplomats, which pales in comparison to the Canadian diplomatic contingent in India.
This striking numerical disparity in diplomatic representation underscores the exceptional nature of the current situation between India and Canada.
It is important to note that such a significant request for downsizing has been made by India only once before, in its relations with Pakistan, during periods of strained ties. The most recent instance occurred when Pakistan decided not to appoint a new high commissioner to New Delhi after India abrogated Article 370 in August 2019.
In another development on Tuesday, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also took a cautious stance, emphasising Canada’s commitment to responsible and constructive engagement with India. Trudeau said his government “want(s) to be on the ground in India to help Canadian families”.
Conclusion: India-Canada Ties and the Complex Path Ahead
In the intricate tapestry of international relations, the recent developments between India and Canada over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, have illuminated the challenges both nations face. Canada finds itself at a crossroads, where multiple issues intersect, demanding careful consideration and diplomatic finesse.
Firstly, Canada’s position hinges on the need to provide concrete evidence of India’s alleged involvement in Nijjar’s killing. Without substantiated proof, diplomatic allegations remain in the realm of speculation and add to mistrust. Additionally, Canada grapples with the unresolved matter of identifying and bringing Nijjar’s killers to justice. These crucial elements underscore the importance of maintaining a robust and fact-based approach in diplomatic discourse.
Secondly, Canada is now seeking to normalise relations with India, a step in the right direction. But, a challenging hurdle arises in the form of addressing concerns related to Khalistani elements. Without using ‘free speech’ as a garb, Canada must fulfil its responsibility to act against forces that promote extremism & violence against India and Indians.
Thirdly, the call for Canada to scale back its diplomatic presence in India presents a diplomatic conundrum. India’s response in requesting a reduction in diplomatic staff serves as a reminder that diplomacy can be assertive without resorting to undue hostility.
Throughout these developments, India’s response has been marked by firmness and a commitment to safeguarding its interests. From the outset, India categorically dismissed allegations levelled by Justin Trudeau as ‘absurd’ and ‘motivated,’ advocating for a balanced and fair dialogue to address international concerns.
India’s diplomatic strength, underscored by its strong stance, represents a nation that navigates international challenges with conviction and integrity. It is a testament to the nation’s resolve to defend its reputation and interests on the global stage. This strength, however, should not be misconstrued as intransigence, but rather as a principled commitment to upholding its dignity in diplomatic engagement.
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