News Mania Desk/ Agnibeena Ghosh/10th June 2024
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, freshly sworn in for his third consecutive term, extended gratitude to his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau for his congratulatory message, emphasizing India’s readiness to collaborate with Canada on the basis of mutual respect and understanding.
In a post on social media platform X, PM Modi conveyed his appreciation to Trudeau, stating, “Thank you @CanadianPM for the congratulatory message. India looks forward to working with Canada based on mutual understanding and respect for each other’s concerns.”
Modi’s response comes against the backdrop of strained relations between the two countries, particularly stemming from Trudeau’s remarks last year alleging India’s involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India vehemently rejected these accusations, dismissing them as “absurd” and “motivated.”
Trudeau’s initial message to Modi came via a post on social media platform X on Thursday (June 6), following Modi’s reelection as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) coalition bloc. The BJP-led NDA secured a resounding victory in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, clinching 294 out of the 543 available seats.
In his message, Trudeau expressed congratulations to Prime Minister Modi on his electoral triumph and affirmed Canada’s commitment to collaborating with India to enhance bilateral relations, underpinned by principles such as human rights, diversity, and the rule of law.
Canada’s engagement with India has been marked by recent developments, including the disclosure in May of the arrest of three individuals in connection with the Nijjar murder case. This revelation followed Trudeau’s earlier insinuations regarding the potential involvement of Indian government agents in Nijjar’s killing. The arrested individuals faced charges of first-degree murder and conspiracy to commit murder.
However, India has voiced dissatisfaction with Ottawa’s handling of the matter, noting the absence of specific or pertinent evidence shared by the Canadian authorities thus far. Furthermore, the arrest of a fourth Indian national in Canada in connection with the case has further complicated the situation.
The ongoing tensions between India and Canada underscore the complexities within their bilateral relationship, with diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing and mitigating areas of contention. Against this backdrop, Modi’s response to Trudeau’s congratulatory message carries significance, highlighting India’s commitment to fostering constructive engagement while advocating for mutual respect and understanding.
As both nations navigate these challenges, the future trajectory of their relationship remains subject to the evolving dynamics of diplomatic dialogue and cooperation.
