S Jaishankar informs US about Canada's sheltering of extremist elements

New Delhi, September 29: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed India's concerns about Canada harboring extremist elements during discussions with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. This development follows a recent diplomatic row between India and Canada, sparked by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's assertion that "Indian government agents" were involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia in June.

Jaishankar made these remarks while participating in a discussion at the Hudson Institute, a think tank located in Washington, DC. He clarified that India had responded to Trudeau's allegations by stating that they were inconsistent with Indian policy. India also offered to investigate any specific information that the Canadian government might provide.

Furthermore, Jaishankar criticised Canada's approach to terrorism and extremism, stating that Canada's permissive attitude had allowed these elements to operate freely within the country. He emphasized that India had long-standing concerns about organised crime, human trafficking, secessionism, violence, and terrorism originating from Canada.

The minister highlighted that Indian diplomats in Canada have faced safety issues, and they have been subjected to public intimidation, which led India to suspend visa services in Canada. He confirmed that he discussed these issues with the US Secretary of State and National Security Advisor, sharing India's perspective and concerns while seeking common ground and understanding.

In essence, Jaishankar's statements shed light on the complex diplomatic relationship between India and Canada, marked by recent tensions and longstanding concerns regarding extremist elements and their activities within Canada's borders.

- With inputs from agencies

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