UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reached out to his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau to urge a de-escalation of the ongoing India-Canada diplomatic dispute. In a statement released by Downing Street, it was revealed that Sunak spoke to Trudeau on Friday evening and was briefed on the situation involving Canadian diplomats in India, reported news agency ANI.
During the call, Sunak expressed his hope for a peaceful resolution and committed to maintaining contact with Prime Minister Trudeau to determine the next steps in addressing the situation.
The UK reiterated its stance that all nations should respect the principles of sovereignty and the rule of law, including adhering to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
Deterioration of India-Canada Relations
The diplomatic relationship between India and Canada has strained following Canada’s expulsion of a senior Indian diplomat. Canada accused India of involvement in the assassination of a Khalistani separatist leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, on Canadian soil. In response to Canada’s actions, India promptly denied any involvement in the assassination and expelled a senior Canadian diplomat in a tit-for-tat move.
Amid rising tensions, India called for a balance in the number of Canadian diplomats stationed in India. Reports indicated that India had requested Canada to reduce its contingent of 62 diplomats in India, citing the need for parity.
Ongoing Discussions for Diplomatic Equilibrium
The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Arindam Bagchi, addressed the issue, explaining that discussions are underway to achieve diplomatic parity, reported ANI. Given the higher number of Canadian diplomats in India, it is expected that there will be a reduction in their presence.
As the India-Canada diplomatic dispute unfolds, international mediation and discussions continue in an effort to reach a peaceful resolution to the escalating situation.