Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed optimism about engaging with the new Indian government on economic ties and national security following his brief interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy. Trudeau highlighted the importance of the summit for direct engagement with various global leaders, including Modi, noting the significant people-to-people and economic ties between Canada and India.
Trudeau emphasized the alignment between the two nations on several key issues, indicating an opportunity to address serious concerns around national security and the rule of law. This marks a potential shift towards cooperation after a period of tension following Trudeau's allegations in September last year about the possible involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a designated Sikh terrorist, in Surrey, British Columbia.
During their brief meeting at the summit, Modi and Trudeau shook hands, and Modi shared a photo of the interaction on social media, noting their encounter. Trudeau, when asked about the status of cooperation from India on the Canadian investigation into Nijjar's murder, mentioned that ongoing work was progressing.
India had strongly denied Trudeau's previous allegations, labelling them as "absurd and motivated." New Delhi has accused Canada of allowing pro-Khalistan elements to operate with impunity and has repeatedly communicated its concerns to Ottawa, urging strong action against these elements.
The murder of Nijjar is being investigated by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), who have arrested four Indian nationals in connection with the case. Trudeau's remarks suggest a cautious but positive outlook for future bilateral engagement on pressing issues between Canada and India.
