The expulsion of the diplomat is likely to have a negative impact on Canada-India relations in a number of ways. It is likely to make it more difficult for the two countries to cooperate on issues of common interest, such as trade and security. It is also likely to make it more difficult for the two countries to resolve their differences.
Canada and India dismissed each other’s diplomats on September 19, 2023, amid escalating tensions over the killing of a Sikh leader in Canada. On June 18, 2023, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh leader supported an independent Sikh homeland named ‘Khalistan‘. He was gunned down outside a Sikh temple in British Columbia. Canada-India relations are at a new low after this sad incident.
On September 18, 2023, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that Canadian security agencies were “actively pursuing credible allegations” linking Indian government agents to the killing of Nijjar.
The following day, India expelled a Canadian diplomat, accusing Canada of interfering in its internal affairs and of harboring Sikh separatists. Canada retaliated by expelling an Indian diplomat.
Both Canada and India have denied any wrongdoing. Canada has said that it is cooperating fully with the Indian investigation into Nijjar’s killing. India has said that it is committed to protecting the rights of all its citizens, including Sikhs.
The expulsion of diplomats is a serious step, and it is a sign of the deep divisions that exist between Canada and India. The two countries have a long history of close ties, but relations have been strained in recent years over a number of issues, including the issue of Sikh separatism.
What is At Stake?
Trade between India and Canada has been growing steadily, reaching $8 billion in 2022. India exports $4 billion worth of goods to Canada and imports $4 billion worth of goods from Canada.
India’s growing demand for imported lentils has benefited Canadian farmers. Indian pharmaceutical and software companies have also expanded their presence in the Canadian market.
India’s major imports from Canada include energy products such as coal, coke, and briquettes, as well as fertilizers. India exports consumer goods, garments, and engineering products such as auto parts, aircraft equipment, and electronic items to Canada.
The expulsion of diplomats is likely to further escalate tensions between the two countries. It is important for both Canada and India to work to de-escalate tensions and rebuild trust. Both countries have a lot to gain from a strong and productive relationship.
