Ottawa, Feb 26: The Canadian federal government announced that it no longer identifies a connection between India and violent crimes occurring within Canada. This development signifies a major pivot in the bilateral relationship as Prime Minister Mark Carney prepares for an upcoming official visit to the South Asian nation.
During a media briefing held on Wednesday, a senior government official affirmed that the nature of the relationship has changed through extensive communication. The official, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, stated that the two countries have maintained a robust diplomatic engagement, including discussions between national security advisers. The official asserted that the government is confident such activities are not continuing.
The change in tone follows a period of significant tension that began in 2023. At that time, allegations surfaced regarding the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, which led to a prolonged diplomatic standoff and the mutual expulsion of diplomats. However, current administration officials now indicate that the previous concerns regarding active foreign interference are no longer a factor in the present day.
The timing of this statement aligns with Prime Minister Carney’s scheduled nine-day trip to India. The itinerary includes high-level meetings in Mumbai and New Delhi, where he is slated to meet with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This mission is viewed as a cornerstone of a more pragmatic foreign policy designed to strengthen economic integration with the world’s most populous country.
A senior official declared that the diplomatic mission itself serves as evidence of this improved security environment. The official maintained that the government would not be undertaking this trip if it believed these kinds of activities were still occurring.
