The government of India’s cooperation with Canada’s legal process is the correct next step in light of recent “serious developments,” according to the UK on Wednesday (October 16, 2024) regarding the ongoing India-Canada diplomatic tensions.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) stated that they are in communication with Canadian counterparts regarding the “ongoing Canadian investigation linked to the government of India” and expressed trust in the Canadian judicial system.
This statement follows India’s decision to expel six Canadian diplomats and recall its High Commissioner in Canada, Sanjay Kumar Verma, earlier in the week, denouncing Canada’s allegations as baseless and part of a political agenda focused on garnering votes.
The FCDO’s statement comes after a call between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Monday (October 14, 2024).
The UK and Canada are both part of the ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence alliance, along with Australia, New Zealand, and the United States.
“We are closely monitoring the significant developments outlined in the independent investigations in Canada,” stated an FCDO spokesperson.
“The UK has full confidence in the Canadian judicial system. Upholding sovereignty and the rule of law is crucial. The government of India’s cooperation with Canada’s legal process is the appropriate course of action,” the spokesperson added.
The India-Canada diplomatic dispute revolves around the assassination of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which escalated after Canadian authorities accused Indian government agents of conducting covert operations in Canada.
India has vehemently denied any involvement of Indian agents with criminal organizations in Canada.
“The government of India categorically rejects these unfounded allegations, attributing them to the political motives of the Trudeau government focused on gaining votes,” stated the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
“Since Prime Minister Trudeau made certain allegations in September 2023, the Canadian government has not provided any evidence to India, despite multiple requests from our side.”
“This latest action follows interactions that have once again seen baseless claims without any evidence. This indicates a deliberate strategy to tarnish India for political purposes under the guise of an investigation,” it continued.
The Foreign Office’s statement follows a more neutral statement from 10 Downing Street after a call between Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau on Monday (October 14, 2024).
“They discussed recent developments regarding allegations under investigation in Canada. Both agreed on the importance of the rule of law. They agreed to remain in close contact pending the conclusions of the investigation,” read the Downing Street statement, which did not explicitly mention India or its government.
Published – October 16, 2024 03:23 pm IST
